Renovate or Sell? How to Sell Inherited Homes the Smart Way
One of the most common questions we get at Colorado Estate Services is: “Should I fix up the home before selling, or just sell it as-is?” If you’ve inherited a property or are managing the sale of an estate, this is a key decision that can impact both your time and your bottom line.
Our answer? Don’t try to become a house flipper.
Why “Fix & Flip” Usually Doesn’t Work for Estates
TV shows and online videos make flipping a house look fast and easy. But real life tells a different story:
- Most estates are managed by personal representatives with limited time, money, and emotional bandwidth.
- Renovation costs add up fast and timelines often go longer than expected.
- Hiring contractors, pulling permits, and navigating inspections can become a full-time job.
Unless you’re a licensed contractor or investor with deep experience, attempting a full renovation is rarely worth the risk.
Focus on Smart, Value-Boosting Fixes
Instead of a full remodel, we recommend focusing on cost-effective improvements that bring at least an equal or better return on investment. These are the “no regret” fixes that:
- Improve first impressions
- Make the home move-in ready
- Avoid scaring off traditional buyers
Top Fixes Worth Doing Before You Sell:
- Fresh interior paint in neutral colors
- New carpet or professional carpet cleaning
- Minor drywall repairs (patching holes, smoothing rough spots)
- Deep cleaning of every room, especially kitchens and baths
- Curb appeal upgrades like lawn care, fresh mulch, and trimmed shrubs
- Replacing broken light fixtures or cabinet hardware
- Decluttering and removing dated furniture or heavy decor
These upgrades are affordable, fast to complete, and help buyers see the home’s potential without overwhelming you.
When Selling As-Is Might Be the Best Option
There are times when selling the home completely as-is is the most sensible choice:
- The home has major structural or system issues (roof, plumbing, electrical)
- The estate doesn’t have funds to invest in repairs
- You need to sell quickly due to time constraints, taxes, or legal pressures
In these cases, we can connect you with trusted off-market buyers and investors who specialize in as-is properties. We also offer quick sale pricing options to help you weigh your choices.
We Help You Decide What Makes Sense
At Colorado Estate Services, we don’t push you toward one path or another. We look at your situation, the property’s condition, and your goals to help you make a decision that protects your time, sanity, and bottom line.
Whether that means selling it as-is or making a few smart upgrades to boost your price on the MLS, we’re here to help you through it step-by-step.
Contact Colorado Estate Services today for a free home assessment and let’s talk through the best strategy for your inherited or estate property.