What You'll Learn:
- • What "as-is" legally means in Washington State
- • When selling as-is makes financial sense (and when it doesn't)
- • How to price an as-is property correctly
- • Required disclosures you still must make
- • Finding buyers who actually want as-is properties
What Does "As-Is" Really Mean in Washington?
"Selling as-is" means you're offering the property in its current condition without making any repairs or improvements. The buyer accepts the property with all existing defects, known and unknown (with important exceptions we'll cover).
What As-Is Does NOT Mean
Common Misconceptions About As-Is Sales:
- ❌ Does NOT mean you can hide known defects
- ❌ Does NOT exempt you from disclosure requirements
- ❌ Does NOT protect you from fraud claims if you lie
- ❌ Does NOT mean buyers can't negotiate or ask for credits
- ❌ Does NOT guarantee buyers won't walk away after inspection
What As-Is DOES Mean
- ✅ You won't make repairs before closing
- ✅ You won't offer credits for needed repairs (typically)
- ✅ Buyers know they're responsible for all future repairs
- ✅ Price should reflect the property's current condition
- ✅ You're signaling you want a quick, simple transaction
Washington's Disclosure Requirements (You Still Must Comply!)
Even when selling as-is, Washington law requires you to complete a Seller Disclosure Statement (Form 17) disclosing known defects and issues. In our experience at Lead Property Buyers, many homeowners mistakenly believe "as-is" eliminates disclosure obligations—it doesn't.
What You Must Disclose
Required Disclosures in Washington:
Structural Issues:
- • Foundation cracks or settling
- • Roof leaks or damage
- • Water intrusion or flooding history
- • Structural modifications
System Problems:
- • Plumbing issues or leaks
- • Electrical problems
- • HVAC system age/condition
- • Septic or well issues
Environmental Hazards:
- • Lead paint (pre-1978 homes)
- • Asbestos
- • Mold problems
- • Soil contamination
Other Material Facts:
- • Property line disputes
- • HOA violations or liens
- • Death on property (if within 3 years)
- • Pest infestations
Legal Requirement: Under Washington RCW 64.06, sellers must disclose known material defects. "As-is" doesn't override this. Failing to disclose can result in lawsuits, rescission of sale, or damages paid to buyer. When in doubt, disclose.
When Does Selling As-Is Make Sense?
Selling as-is isn't right for everyone. Here's when it typically makes the most financial and practical sense:
Property Needs Major Repairs ($20K+)
If your home needs extensive work (new roof, foundation repair, complete remodel), the cost to fix may exceed what you'd recoup in sale price.
→ Example: Spending $40K on repairs might only increase sale price by $25K. Selling as-is nets you more.
You Need to Sell Quickly
Repairs take time. Contractors, permits, inspections—it can add 2-6 months to your timeline. If you're facing foreclosure, divorce, relocation, or estate settlement, you may not have that time.
→ Selling as-is to a cash buyer can close in 7-21 days.
You Don't Have Money for Repairs
Many homeowners facing financial hardship can't afford upfront repair costs, even if it would increase sale price. Banks don't lend against properties you're selling.
→ As-is sale eliminates need for cash investment before closing.
You're an Out-of-State Heir or Landlord
Managing repairs from hundreds or thousands of miles away is expensive and stressful. Finding contractors, getting bids, overseeing work—it's a nightmare remotely.
→ Selling as-is eliminates the need to manage renovations from afar.
You Want to Avoid Hassle and Uncertainty
Traditional sales involve showings, negotiations, repair requests after inspection, and potential deal fall-throughs. As-is sales to the right buyer eliminate most of this.
→ As-is sales offer more certainty and less stress.