What Does “As Is” Really mean?

“If a house is advertised ‘as is’, does that mean that the house has problems? And can you still inspect it and ask for something to be fixed?”

***ANSWER:
Great questions. Homes are typically advertised “As Is” for three different but related reasons:

First, indeed the home may have problems, ranging from ugly cosmetics to a damaged foundation. The seller typically makes the problems known (or they’re obvious) and doesn’t want to discount the price, then after inspections discount again or make repairs for the same issue.

Second, the home may have no serious known problems. But the seller thinks that merely saying “As Is” magically means the buyer will be OK with any defects they later discover. This unwise approach usually results in a lower price and/or the buyer asking for repairs anyway.

Third, the seller may be an estate, or a bank selling a foreclosure. Such sellers almost never make repairs, no matter the issue, so they’re letting you know up front.

Regarding whether you can still ask for repairs on a home sold “As Is”, you should be able to do so. I’ve never heard of a contract that prohibits you from at least asking.

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