Should You Repair Before Selling?

A Cost-Benefit Guide for Inherited Properties

by Arie Kopman - Probate Property Advocate

When you inherit a house that needs work, one of the biggest questions you'll face is whether to invest in repairs before selling. It's a decision with significant financial implications, and the right answer isn't always obvious.

Should you spend $20,000 on updates to potentially increase the sale price by $35,000? Or will you only recoup $15,000 of that investment, making it smarter to sell as-is? What if you don't have cash on hand for repairs—does it make sense to borrow against the estate?

This guide will help you think through the repair-or-sell-as-is decision strategically, understand which repairs typically provide the best return on investment, and recognize when a cash sale makes the most financial sense.