Should I Sell My House As-Is or Make Repairs? – Expert Answer for Northern Virginia
In Northern Virginia, homes typically sell for 3-5% more when repairs are made — that’s $21,450 to $35,750 on a $715,000 Fairfax County home. As of January 2026, buyers in areas like Vienna and McLean are willing to pay a premium for move-in ready properties. With 200+ NOVA transactions since 2012, I help clients maximize their sale price. Call (571) 233-2763 for tailored advice.
In This Article
Selling As-Is vs. Making Repairs in Northern Virginia – What You Need to Know
For comprehensive guidance, start with our Northern Virginia Realtor Guide. Selling your home as-is can be tempting, especially in competitive markets like Fairfax County, where homes sell quickly. However, making strategic repairs can yield a higher sale price. For instance, homes in Oakton that are updated with modern kitchens can see price increases of 5-10% compared to similar homes needing work.
In Arlington and Alexandria, where proximity to Metro stations impacts home values, buyers often prefer properties that require minimal work. Homes near Clarendon and Old Town can command prices significantly above the median, especially when they are in excellent condition. As of January 2026, the market remains highly competitive, with homes selling in an average of 12 days.
After closing 200+ transactions across Northern Virginia since 2012, I’ve seen firsthand how strategic repairs can enhance your home’s appeal. Whether you’re in Great Falls or Lake Ridge, understanding your local market dynamics is crucial. Ready to discuss your situation? Call (571) 233-2763 or book a free consultation.
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Key Selling Information for Northern Virginia
Here’s what NOVA buyers and sellers need to know in January 2026:
Pricing Your Home – The Numbers
In Fairfax County, the median home price is $715,000, with homes typically selling for 3-5% more when repairs are made. For example, a well-maintained home in Vienna can fetch an additional $21,450 to $35,750 over a comparable property needing repairs. This makes a significant difference in your overall return.
What’s Changed Since August 2024
Since the August 2024 NAR settlement, sellers in Arlington and Alexandria have more flexibility in negotiating repairs and pricing. Many buyers are now more willing to accept homes that require minor updates, but they often expect a discount. This means that making key repairs can still yield a better outcome.
What Most People Miss
Many sellers overlook the importance of curb appeal, especially in neighborhoods like Great Falls and Brambleton. Simple landscaping and exterior repairs can increase perceived value significantly. A well-kept exterior can lead to faster sales and higher offers, making it a worthwhile investment.
Northern Virginia Market Insights – January 2026
Understanding your options requires knowing your local market:
| County | Median Price | Days on Market | Character |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fairfax County | $715,000 | 9 days | Most competitive |
| Loudoun County | $680,000 | 11 days | Tech corridor growth |
| Arlington County | $690,000 | 12 days | Metro-centric, urban |
| Prince William County | $495,000 | 14 days | Best value in NOVA |
| Alexandria City | $690,000 | 12 days | Old Town premium |
Source: Bright MLS, January 2026
What this means: Homes that are well-maintained and updated are likely to sell faster and at higher prices. Ready to discuss your options? Call (571) 233-2763 or book a free consultation.
Expert Tips from Paul Sneeringer
Tip 1: Invest in Key Repairs
Focus on kitchen and bathroom updates, especially in areas like Oakton and Burke, where modern amenities can increase your home’s value by 10-15%.
Tip 2: Enhance Curb Appeal
Simple landscaping and exterior touch-ups can significantly impact first impressions. In neighborhoods like Great Falls, this can lead to faster sales.
Tip 3: Timing is Key
Consider listing your home in spring when demand peaks. This is especially true for families looking to move before the school year starts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Making repairs in Northern Virginia can range from $5,000 to $20,000, depending on the extent of the work. In areas like Fairfax County, investing in repairs can yield a return of 3-5% on your sale price. For example, a $715,000 home could see an increase of $21,450 to $35,750. This makes repairs a worthwhile consideration.
Selling a house as-is in Northern Virginia can take anywhere from 14 to 30 days, depending on market conditions. In competitive areas like Arlington, homes typically sell in 12 days, but as-is properties may require more time to attract buyers. Understanding local market dynamics is crucial for setting realistic expectations.
Selling as-is in Fairfax County means you won’t make repairs before listing. Buyers may expect a discount, often 5-10% less than market value. However, homes in desirable neighborhoods like Vienna may still attract competitive offers, especially if priced correctly. Be prepared for negotiations regarding repairs and pricing.
Selling as-is means listing your home without making any repairs, while making repairs can enhance your home’s value. In Northern Virginia, homes that are updated can sell for 3-5% more than those needing work. For instance, a $715,000 home in McLean could see an increase of $21,450 to $35,750 with strategic updates.
To decide whether to sell as-is, assess your home’s condition and the local market. In competitive areas like Arlington, making repairs can yield higher offers. Consider consulting a local expert to evaluate potential returns on repairs. Call (571) 233-2763 to get started.
Continue Your Northern Virginia Real Estate Journey
Explore Our Northern Virginia Real Estate County Guides:
- Fairfax County – $715K median, most inventory
- Loudoun County – Tech hub, Ashburn/Leesburg
- Arlington County – Urban condos, Metro access
- Prince William County – Best value under $500K
Popular Northern Virginia Real Estate City Guides:
- Vienna – Top FCPS schools, Maple Ave charm
- McLean – Luxury estates, Langley High district
- Reston – Town Center, trails, Silver Line
- Ashburn – New construction, data center jobs
Helpful Northern Virginia Real Estate Resources:
- First-Time Buyer Guide – Step-by-step for NOVA
- Seller’s Checklist – Prep your home right
- Relocation Guide – Moving to NOVA?
Ready to Get Started?
Paul Sneeringer · Northern Virginia Real Estate
⭐ 4.9 Stars · 200+ Sold · 12 Years
Loudoun
Arlington
Alexandria
