Now that 2026 is underway, real estate agents and brokers are more than one full year into the changed situation involving buyer commissions. It was supposedly designed to save money for buyers. Market trends would seem to indicate the legislation has not made any difference. Home prices continue to adjust based on the local market, making it near impossible to determine any difference, despite the inconveniences caused before and since being enacted.
This is not to say the situation should or should not be changed. However, the uncertainty about buyer representation appears to be having an impact on how many property listings are presented. There seems to be even more to deal with than concerns about disclosure, especially for older properties. The below linked article about supposed benefits of buying an As-Is property demonstrates that.
While it is true that some buyers are looking for something they can move into quickly, they also may not want to have to worry about fixing up, repairing, and replacing within weeks or months of acquiring. The idea of not having to spend to fix up in order to sell is appealing to many, but those have typically been opportunities for investors to discount in order to acquire, fix, and sell or rent for long-term gain.
The marketing aspects of this are significant. If it actually becomes a trend for consumers to consider As-Is purchases, it means that properties that are up to speed and in solid condition will become even more valuable to buyers that want more convenience and less worry. You can let them know that a “kept up” property will save them time and money.
It is one thing when an investor or contractor that understands what needs fixing and how to best fix it acquires a property. However, it’s another thing when a buyer commits to a property for what they think will be less money and has no clue or experience in how to properly repair. We could be faced with homeowners with a DIY philosophy, using subpar or wrong materials, or doing temporary patchwork. Those may be fine for a year or two, but the next buyer could experience unforeseen problems.
Selling agents could benefit from making that distinction in their marketing, whether for a property in ideal condition or an AS-IS. For example, pointing out that the “roof was replaced in 2025” might make a potential buyer ask about that when looking at a lower prices AS-IS. Alert them to how much money the “good condition” would save them instead. Remember to mention warranties and service contracts. There are reasons why many consumers purchase a new car ahead of a used one despite the price. It is getting to be that way with properties. You could be “first in” to the closing table by helping your clients to understand this.
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