Shreveport Bossier City #1 Real Estate Company

If you’re a homeowner in Shreveport staring at a long list of repairs and wondering “How am I ever going to sell this house?” — you’re not alone.

Many homes across Shreveport, especially older properties, need more work than the average buyer is willing (or able) to take on. Between foundation issues, roof problems, outdated systems, and cosmetic damage, the cost to fix everything can feel overwhelming.

The good news?
You still have real options — even if your house needs too many repairs to sell the traditional way.

This guide breaks down what to do next, what your choices really look like in the Shreveport market, and how to move forward without wasting time or money.

Why Repair-Heavy Homes Are Hard to Sell in Shreveport

Shreveport has a large inventory of older homes, and while that gives the city character, it also creates challenges when selling.

Homes often struggle on the open market when they have:

• Foundation movement or cracks
• Roofs near the end of their life
• Old plumbing or electrical systems
• HVAC units that don’t meet buyer expectations
• Water damage, mold, or storm damage
• Outdated kitchens and bathrooms
• Long-term deferred maintenance

Most traditional buyers want move-in-ready homes, and most lenders require properties to meet strict safety and condition standards. That means even if a buyer likes your home, financing can fall apart during inspections or appraisals.

The Real Cost of Repairs (What Homeowners Don’t Expect)

One of the biggest mistakes sellers make is underestimating repair costs.

In Shreveport, typical repair ranges often look like this:

• Foundation repairs: $6,000 – $18,000
• Roof replacement: $6,000 – $14,000
• Electrical or plumbing updates: $4,000 – $20,000
• HVAC replacement: $5,000 – $10,000
• Cosmetic renovation (floors, paint, fixtures): $10,000 – $40,000+

And that doesn’t include:

• Contractor delays
• Unexpected issues behind walls
• Holding costs (mortgage, utilities, insurance, taxes)

For many homeowners, investing tens of thousands of dollars upfront simply isn’t realistic.

Option 1: Repair the House and List It Traditionally

This option can make sense if:

• The house only needs light cosmetic updates
• You have access to cash or financing
• You can handle months of work and delays

Pros:

• Potentially higher retail price
• Broader buyer pool

Cons:

• High upfront costs
• Stress and time commitment
• Risk of repairs going over budget
• No guarantee the house sells quickly

For heavily distressed homes, this option often creates more problems than it solves.

Option 2: List the House “As-Is” With a Realtor

Some homeowners try listing as-is on the MLS, hoping a buyer will overlook the repairs.

Reality check:

• Fewer buyers are willing to take on major repairs
• Financing issues still come up
• Buyers often demand steep price reductions after inspections
• Homes can sit for months

Even as-is listings still involve:

• Showings
• Appraisals
• Inspection negotiations
• Uncertain timelines

Many Shreveport homeowners discover that listing as-is still leads to frustration.

Option 3: Sell the House As-Is to a Local Cash Buyer

For houses with too many repairs, this is often the most practical solution.

Cash buyers and local investors:

• Buy properties in any condition
• Expect repairs
• Don’t rely on bank financing
• Close quickly and reliably

Benefits of Selling As-Is:

• No repairs required
• No cleaning or junk removal
• No agent commissions
• No showings or open houses
• Choose your closing date

This option is especially helpful for homeowners dealing with:

• Long-term deferred maintenance
• Vacant properties
• Inherited homes
• Financial pressure
• Relocation or life changes

Why Many Shreveport Homes Fail Inspection

Even homes that look “okay” often fail inspections due to:

• Older electrical panels
• Plumbing leaks
• Roof wear
• Foundation movement common in the area
• Outdated safety standards

Inspection failures lead to:

• Price reductions
• Repair demands
• Deals falling apart

Selling to a cash buyer avoids these roadblocks entirely.

Emotional Side: When Repairs Feel Overwhelming

It’s not just about money.

Many homeowners feel:

• Stuck
• Embarrassed by the condition
• Overwhelmed by decisions
• Exhausted from maintaining a problem property

This is especially true for:

• Inherited homes
• Rental properties with tenant damage
• Homes owned for decades

Selling as-is isn’t “giving up” — it’s choosing a solution that fits your reality.

A Common Shreveport Scenario

A homeowner in South Shreveport owned a house with foundation issues, an aging roof, and outdated systems. Repair estimates exceeded $35,000.

Instead of taking on debt and months of stress, they sold the home as-is, avoided further expenses, and closed in under two weeks — allowing them to move forward with peace of mind.

How the As-Is Selling Process Works

While each situation is unique, the process is usually simple:

1. Property walkthrough or photo review
2. Straightforward offer based on condition
3. No obligation or pressure
4. Flexible closing timeline
5. No repairs, no fees

You can even leave unwanted items behind.

Final Thoughts: You Still Have Options

If your house needs too many repairs to sell traditionally, you are not out of options.

The key is understanding:

• The true cost of repairs
• The risks of listing
• The value of speed and certainty

Whether you choose to repair, list as-is, or sell directly, the right decision is the one that reduces stress and fits your situation.

If you’re unsure which path makes the most sense, having a conversation and reviewing your options can bring clarity — without pressure.

Local, Honest Help Matters

Working with someone who understands Shreveport homes, neighborhoods, and market realities makes all the difference when repairs complicate the sale.

Poppa Homes Specialize In Buying and Selling Houses in Any Situation in Shreveport, Bossier City and Minden LA. If you need to sell your house fast, Poppa Homes can help. We’re a local cash home buyer that purchases houses in any condition, any situation, and we make the process simple, honest, and stress-free. No repairs, no cleaning, no agent commissions — just a fair cash offer and a timeline that works for you.