Is It Legal to Sell a Home 'As Is' in Pasadena?

Is it legal to sell a home 'as is' in Pasadena?

Answer:
Yes, it is legal to sell a home 'as is' in Pasadena—as long as you comply with California’s disclosure laws. May Kunka explains what 'as is' really means, what you’re still responsible for, and how to protect your sale legally.

What Does Selling a Home 'As Is' Actually Mean?

When you sell a home “as is,” it means the property is being sold in its current condition—with no promise to make repairs. You're essentially telling buyers they must accept the home with all its flaws, known or unknown. This is common for estate properties, homes needing renovation, or when the seller wants a quick and simplified sale.

Is It Legal in California?

Yes. Selling a home “as is” is entirely legal in California, including Pasadena. However, there’s one important condition: you must still disclose all known material defects. “As is” does not exempt you from California’s disclosure laws.

What You Still Have to Do as a Seller

Even if you're selling “as is,” you’re still responsible for:

  • Completing a Transfer Disclosure Statement (TDS)

  • Filling out the Seller Property Questionnaire (SPQ)

  • Providing the Natural Hazard Disclosure (NHD)

  • Disclosing any major repairs, damages, or system failures

  • Complying with local requirements (e.g., smoke detectors, water-saving fixtures, carbon monoxide alarms)

May Kunka ensures that these forms are completed correctly to protect you from liability—even in a no-repair sale.

Benefits of Selling “As Is” in Pasadena

  • Avoid the time and cost of pre-sale repairs

  • Attract cash buyers and investors who expect to renovate

  • Speed up the process for urgent situations like relocation or inheritance

  • Clarify buyer expectations upfront and reduce repair negotiations

Potential Drawbacks of an “As Is” Sale

  • May receive lower offers due to buyer caution

  • Limits the buyer pool to more risk-tolerant investors

  • Higher chance of repair credit negotiations after inspection

  • Less appeal to conventional buyers seeking move-in-ready homes

When Selling “As Is” Makes Sense

  • The home needs significant repairs or upgrades

  • You’re handling a trust or probate sale

  • You want to avoid investing further into the property

  • Buyers are already aware of the condition via inspection or disclosures

How May Kunka Markets “As Is” Homes Effectively

Selling “as is” doesn’t mean settling for less. May Kunka uses precise pricing strategies and clear marketing language to attract the right buyers—especially in areas like Bungalow Heaven, San Rafael Hills, or Chapman Woods where demand is strong.

She also ensures buyer expectations are managed early, reducing fallout during escrow.

What About Buyer Inspections?

Buyers still have the right to inspect—even in “as is” deals. And if they discover major issues, they can walk away unless contingencies were waived. May Kunka prepares sellers for this by recommending strategic pre-disclosures and pre-listing inspections when helpful.

Final Thoughts: Yes, You Can Sell “As Is”—Legally and Successfully

Selling your Pasadena home “as is” is perfectly legal, and for many, it’s a smart move. Just be sure to follow the rules, disclose known issues, and work with a professional like May Kunka who understands how to guide and protect you throughout the process.

Thinking About Selling Your Home “As Is” in Pasadena?

If you’re managing an estate, moving quickly, or simply want a clean and simple sale, May Kunka can help. She’ll walk you through every step to ensure your sale is smooth, legal, and efficient.