You do not need to get an inspection or appraisal for a cash home sale in Michigan if the buyer agrees in writing to buy your house as is. Michigan law does not require either step when both sides make a clear agreement.
You can close the sale without an inspection or an appraisal if the buyer is comfortable. Some buyers might want an inspection or appraisal for their own peace of mind, but it is not required by law. If both you and the buyer sign a contract that says the home is being sold as is, you do not need to arrange an inspection or appraisal.
Let’s look at home inspections and appraisals in a cash home sale in Michigan.
What Is A Cash Home Sale In Michigan?
A cash home sale happens when the buyer pays the total price directly to the seller without a mortgage loan. This is the fastest way to sell your house.
Cash home buyers are often investors or people who want to close quickly and avoid waiting for loan approval. Most cash buyers are willing to buy your house as is, which means you do not need to make repairs or updates before the sale.
Why Cash Sales Are Different
With a cash sale, you do not have to work with a bank. You and the buyer make all the decisions. If you both agree, you can skip inspections and appraisals. If the buyer feels comfortable with the property, they may want to sign the contract and close as soon as possible.
The Importance Of A Written Agreement
The written contract is what matters most in a cash sale. If you both agree and sign that the house is being sold as is, the buyer cannot ask for repairs later. A clear, simple agreement protects both of you and keeps the sale smooth.
Do You Need An Inspection In A Cash Sale?
There is no Michigan law that says you must get a home inspection when selling your house for cash. You do not have to pay for anyone to check the roof, plumbing, or heating unless the buyer asks for it in your agreement. If you are selling as is, the buyer agrees to take the house in its present condition.
Why Some Cash Buyers Request Inspections
A few buyers may want an inspection for their own information; one of the most common is if there is a private well and/or septic on the property. This helps them plan for repairs or know what they are buying. If a buyer wants an inspection, they will coordinate and pay for that inspection.
What Happens If Problems Are Found?
If the inspection turns up repairs, the contract you signed still rules the sale. When you sell your house as is, you do not have to make repairs. If the buyer signed for an as is sale, you are not responsible for fixing things unless you agree to do so in writing. The buyer may ask to renegotiate the price if there are extensive issues found that they need to consider as part of their repair costs.
Do You Need An Appraisal In A Cash Sale?
Michigan law does not require an appraisal for a cash sale. Appraisals are used to estimate a home’s value, usually for a mortgage lender. If there is no lender, there is no need for an appraisal unless the buyer asks for one.
Why Some Buyers Order Appraisals
Sometimes buyers want an appraisal to check that the price is fair. It can help them feel good about the deal or plan their budget. If the buyer wants an appraisal, they arrange and pay for it. You do not need to get an appraisal yourself or pay for one unless you want to.
When You Might Want An Appraisal
You might want your own appraisal if you are not sure about your house’s value before setting a price. This is always your choice and is never required. Most sellers skip this step in a cash sale, especially when selling as is.
Why Your Written Agreement Matters Most
The contract is what makes a cash sale simple. If you are selling as is, make sure your contract says so. Both you and the buyer should sign that you agree to the terms. When everything is in writing, you are both protected. The buyer understands what they are getting, and you are not responsible for repairs.
Tips For A Direct Cash Sale:
- Put all agreements about inspections and appraisals in writing.
- Make sure your contract states the house is being sold as is.
- Tell the buyer about any problems using your disclosure form.
- Decide who will pay closing costs before you sign the contract.
- Keep copies of all agreements and documents for your records.
What About The Seller’s Disclosure Form?
Even in a cash sale, Michigan requires you to give the buyer a seller’s disclosure statement. This form asks questions about your home’s roof, plumbing, heating, and other systems. You must answer honestly. If you hide a problem, the buyer can take action after the sale. Fill out the form as completely as you can, even if the house is being sold as is.
How To Make A Cash Home Sale Go Smoothly
Cash sales move quickly if you take care of the details. Start by setting your price. Fill out your disclosure form with honest answers. Tell buyers up front that you want to sell as is.
Once you find a buyer, agree in writing about skipping inspections and appraisals. Double-check every document before you sign. When you are both clear about the deal, you can close fast and avoid surprises.
The Benefits And Drawbacks Of Skipping Inspections And Appraisals
Benefits:
- You save time and close faster.
- You do not pay for extra reports or checks.
Drawbacks:
- Buyers might worry about hidden problems.
- Some buyers may still ask for an inspection or an appraisal.
Who Usually Buys As Is for Cash In Michigan?
Most cash buyers are investors or people who want a house they can fix up on their own schedule. They know what they are getting and do not want delays. These buyers expect to buy as is and are ready to handle repairs after closing.
What Happens At Closing?
Closing is the final step. You and the buyer sign all documents and exchange payment for the house. The contract should say that the house is being sold as is and explain who pays the closing costs. As long as you both agree in writing to skip inspections and appraisals, there are no last-minute checks. The deal is done, and you both move forward.
Sell Your House As Is In Kalamazoo, MI
Do you want to sell your house as is in Kalamazoo, MI? Ryan Buys Houses makes cash sales easy. No need for repairs, inspections, or appraisals. You get a simple, fast sale and close on your timeline. Fill out our online form or call (269) 775-4095. Get your no-obligation cash offer and move on your own terms.