If you’ve come across a property listed “as is” while house hunting, pause before picturing a bargain. In my years of crawling under crawlspaces and peering into attic corners, I’ve learned that “as is” doesn’t always mean disaster—but it never means skip the homework.
No Fixes, No Credits, No Guarantees
When a seller lists a property “as is,” it’s a polite way of saying, “What you see is what you get—and what you don’t see, too.” The seller is making it clear upfront: they won’t be footing the bill for repairs, adjustments, or cosmetic touch-ups. They’re stepping back from negotiations involving condition-related concerns. That doesn’t mean the house is falling apart. But it does mean any and all issues—big or small—become your responsibility the minute escrow closes.
Due Diligence is Non-Negotiable
I’ve inspected plenty of “as is” homes that were perfectly livable—and others that came with expired permits, knob-and-tube wiring, or foundations that looked like they’d weathered one quake too many. Here in LA, deferred maintenance is common in older homes, especially where long-term owners didn’t modernize. So when you see “as is,” your inspection isn’t optional—it’s your best shot at avoiding a money pit.
Don’t just get a general inspection. Depending on what’s found, budget time and cash for specialists: roofers, sewer scope techs, electricians. If the home has a hillside location or shows signs of settlement, a foundation or soils expert might be wise. Remember: the seller isn’t obligated to tell you everything—they just can’t legally hide known issues. It’s up to your team to uncover the rest.
Financing Can Get Tricky
Keep in mind: lenders have their own standards. Even if you’re willing to take the house as is, your lender might not. If the roof leaks, or if mold, termites, or structural issues are discovered, your loan approval could hit a wall. FHA, VA, and even conventional loans sometimes stall over condition concerns. In some cases, only a cash offer makes sense.
Final Thoughts
“As is” isn’t a deal-breaker—it’s a red flag telling you to slow down, dig deep, and understand exactly what you’re walking into. Some buyers have scored great homes this way. Others have inherited thousand-dollar headaches. The difference lies in how well they looked past the listing photos and into the bones of the building.