George K.
Owners of houses damaged by fire are often faced with a dilemma; to repair or sell as-is. Fires arising from residential and commercial properties can have far-reaching effects on the structures. The loss of property is accompanied by a loss of an emotional attachment to the home. After a fire, someone may feel that a part of their living has gone away.
A decision to sell as is or make repairs is hinged on the following:
The Extent of the Damage
Some fires wreak havoc on a house, leaving behind a pale shadow of its former self. The homeowner might find it better to sell as is and invest elsewhere. However, if the fire destroys just a few items, it might be possible to restore the house.
Cost of Repairs
Extensive repair works mean that it might take longer to restore the house. The cost of repair might also be too high. For instance, damages caused by smoke and soot might require hiring professionals with specialized tools to use while working. This will lead to a higher repair bill.
Insurance Claims
Insurance companies are known to sometimes play games with their clients. Your claim might take too long to process. Also, the company will want to give you the lowest possible amount as compensation for the fire damage.
Why Sell Your Damaged House As Is?
Homeowners who decide to dispose of their properties do so because of the following factors:
1. Fresh Start
Fires sometimes have a long-lasting emotional effect on homeowners. Some may find it uncomfortable to continue living at the same location, thus deciding to relocate to other towns. Armed with the cash from the house sale, one may decide to purchase property elsewhere.
2. Quick Process
Often, there is no bureaucracy in selling fire-damaged houses. The buyers often require homeowners to contact them through their official website where they can be advised further. The process of selling is fast, leaving each party satisfied.
3. Time Factor
Repair works might sometimes take a long time. How would you feel living in a construction site for months? If you live with young kids or family members with special needs, the construction site environment might not be the best for them. Selling as is might be the best option.
4. Market Factor
Let’s be honest, fire-damaged houses are a tough sell. This is because you have to disclose to potential buyers that the house had fire damage. This might scare off some potential buyers. Some opt to get properties with no fire history.
5. Additional Charges
In addition to the repair, some extra costs that you may incur include:
- Storage charges for salvaged items and other stuff rescued from the fire
- Cleaning costs for the house
- Transport costs if you need to transport items away from the fire-damaged home
6. Health Reasons
Smoke from the burning house permeates every corner and gets on to almost every surface. It is possible to still smell smoke in the house even after restoring it. Soot arises from the combustion of materials, natural and synthetic. Soot might contain toxic substances harmful to a person’s health.
7. Liquid Cash
Most as is purchases for fire-damaged houses are in cash. After prices are agreed, sellers will not incur extra banking charges like ledger fees or check charges.
Why Should You Repair Your Fire-Damaged House?
1. Sentimental Value
Some homeowners attach a great deal of sentimental value to their houses. They may opt to restore the house to its former glory and sell it, or just continue living there. For instance, houses that have a rich family history.
2. More Value
Sometimes, homeowners stand to gain more from their property by restoring and listing it on the market. A comparative market analysis can help one determine how much value can be attained this way.
3. Future Prospects
If you live in a place with positive property growth and development, you might want to hold onto your property a little longer. Future expansion plans in that location might lead to higher property value.
4. Change Design
Fire damage might give you that chance to alter the interior and exterior design of your house during the restoration process. You can also use this chance to repair and fix other faulty items in the house.
Property experts advise to always ensure your property against accidents. You don’t want to be left homeless when such tragedies strike. If, however, this unfortunate event happens to you, consider the above-mentioned tips to help you decide whether to restore or just sell your fire-damaged house as-is. But this should fall to only one result – you get maximum value for money.
