Should You Sell Your Long Island Home As-Is or Make Repairs First?

Should I sell my Long Island home as-is or make repairs first?
It depends on your priorities. If you're looking to sell quickly with minimal hassle, selling as-is might make sense. But if you want top dollar and have the time and resources, making strategic repairs can increase your sale price. Eric Berman REALTOR can help you make the right call for your unique situation.

The Dilemma: Speed vs. Profit

Selling your home as-is on Long Island can simplify the process—but it may reduce your sale price or limit buyer interest. On the flip side, investing in repairs may attract more buyers and generate higher offers, but comes with upfront costs and time.

To make the right decision, you’ll need to consider your goals, the condition of your home, and current market dynamics.

What Does “As-Is” Really Mean in New York?

In New York, including Long Island, selling “as-is” means you’re offering the property in its current condition with no obligation to make repairs after an accepted offer. However, buyers still retain their right to conduct inspections and can walk away or negotiate based on the results.

You are still legally required to:

• Disclose known material defects

• Comply with fair housing laws

• Provide documentation like lead paint disclosures (if applicable)

Eric Berman REALTOR will help you navigate these disclosure rules and set expectations with buyers.

Pros of Selling As-Is on Long Island

• Faster timeline: Ideal if you’re relocating, settling an estate, or facing financial pressure.

• Lower upfront costs: You avoid investing in pre-sale repairs.

• Attracts investors: Some buyers are specifically looking for fixer-uppers.

• Less stress: No need to manage contractors or staging.

Cons of Selling As-Is

• Lower sale price: Buyers will factor in the cost of repairs—and usually overestimate.

• Fewer buyer options: Some buyers need homes to meet certain standards to qualify for financing.

• Longer time on market: If priced incorrectly, as-is listings can sit without serious offers.

• Negotiation leverage: Buyers may come in low or demand credits post-inspection.

When Selling As-Is Might Make Sense

Eric Berman often recommends the as-is route when:

• The seller needs to move quickly

• The home has significant deferred maintenance

• The cost of repairs outweighs likely return on investment

• The home will appeal most to investors or contractors

If you’re unsure, Eric can walk you through a cost-benefit breakdown.

When Making Repairs Pays Off

In many Long Island neighborhoods, especially where buyers expect move-in ready homes, basic repairs can go a long way.

Repairs that offer strong ROI:

• Fresh paint in neutral tones

• Minor kitchen or bath updates (fixtures, hardware, lighting)

• Curb appeal enhancements (landscaping, power washing)

• Repairing obvious issues (leaks, broken windows, squeaky doors)

Well-prepped homes often sell faster and for 5–15% more than homes in similar locations that weren’t updated.

Hybrid Option: Compass Concierge

Eric Berman offers Compass Concierge—a program that lets you make key improvements with no upfront costs. You only pay when the home sells.

This can be a smart option if:

• You want top dollar but don’t have cash on hand

• Your home needs cosmetic improvements

• You want to stand out in a competitive market

Eric will coordinate the process from start to finish.

What’s Happening in the Long Island Market Right Now?

As of mid-2025, inventory on Long Island is still tight in many price brackets. That means even homes sold as-is are attracting interest—if they’re priced right.

Buyers are more price-sensitive than in previous years due to rising interest rates, so transparency and strategy matter more than ever.

How Eric Berman REALTOR Helps You Decide

Every home is different. Eric’s approach includes:

• A walkthrough to assess condition and marketability

• Comparable sales analysis (both as-is and improved)

• Estimated costs and ROI for repairs

• Guidance on Compass Concierge if relevant

He’ll give you a realistic, data-backed recommendation—not pressure.

Final Thoughts

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. But whether you sell as-is or decide to make repairs, working with Eric Berman REALTOR ensures you’re making a smart, informed decision.

Not sure what’s best for your Long Island home?

Schedule a consultation with Eric today to weigh your options and maximize your results.

Meta Description:
Thinking of selling your Long Island home as-is? Eric Berman REALTOR explains the pros, cons, and when to make repairs to get the best results.