🏡Thinking About Selling Your House As Is? Read This First

If you’re thinking about selling your home in 2026, you may be weighing a big decision:

➡️ Do you sell your home as-is and keep things simple—no repairs, no extra effort?
➡️ Or do you make a few updates first to help your home shine and potentially sell for more?

In today’s shifting real estate market, that choice matters more than it has in years. Let’s break down what homeowners in Jefferson, Fort Atkinson, and across Jefferson County, WI need to know.

📈 More Homes for Sale Means Condition Matters Again

Over the past year, housing inventory has been steadily rising. According to Realtor.com, the number of homes for sale is expected to increase by nearly 9% in 2026.

What does that mean for sellers?
When buyers have more choices, they become more selective 🧐.

That’s why home condition is back in the spotlight.

A recent study from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) found that:

• ✅ 65% of sellers made minor repairs or improvements before listing

• ❌ Only 35% sold their home as-is

Most sellers are choosing to prep their homes—even modestly—to stay competitive.

🔨 What Selling “As-Is” Really Means

Selling as-is means you’re telling buyers upfront that:

• You won’t make repairs before listing

• You won’t negotiate repairs after inspections

This can absolutely simplify the process for you. But there’s a tradeoff ⚖️.

Homes that are move-in ready tend to:
✔ Attract more buyers
✔ Generate stronger offers
✔ Sell faster

Homes that need work often see:
❌ Fewer showings
❌ Fewer offers
❌ Longer time on the market
❌ A lower final sale price

Selling as-is doesn’t mean your home won’t sell—it just means it may not sell for top dollar.

🤝 How a Local Agent Helps You Decide

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The right strategy depends on:

• Your home’s condition

• Your timeline

• Your budget

• Your local Jefferson County market

That’s where working with a trusted local agent makes all the difference.

If you sell as-is:

A skilled agent will highlight your home’s strengths—like location, lot size, layout, or future potential—so buyers see opportunity, not just projects.

If you make repairs:

Your agent can help you focus on high-impact, cost-effective updates that buyers care about most, instead of over-improving or wasting money.

💡 The good news?
Spring is typically the busiest buying season, and there’s still time to make thoughtful updates without rushing—while positioning your home for maximum exposure.

🏁 Bottom Line

Selling as-is can still make sense in certain situations—but in a more competitive 2026 market, it may cost you more than you expect.

You don’t have to make repairs before listing.
But depending on your home and your goals, you may want to.

If you’re unsure which path makes the most sense, a quick conversation can give you clarity.

📍 Talk With a Local Expert You Can Trust

For honest guidance tailored to Jefferson, WI and surrounding communities, connect with:

Chris Nash
Century 21 Integrity Group – Jefferson, WI
📧 cnash@sellzhomez.com
🌐 https://www.c21integritygroup.com

A smart strategy—paired with local expertise—can make all the difference when it’s time to sell.