As to the question of whether to renovate and repair or sell As Is the answer in my opinion all depends on the situation of the Seller.  If the seller is looking for and has the ability to wait out a buyer who is willing to pay top dollar then making judicious improvements is an excellent idea.  A home with the most looked for improvements certainly sells faster and for more money.  Those improvements would include newer appliances, newer bathroom fixtures, countertops, cabinets, solid surface counters in the Kitchen as well as nice cabinetry and is well maintained inside and out.  Any homeowner who can afford to doo repairs is advised to always do so.  Buyers of all price ranges want to see homes for the most part that do not need a lot of repair issues.  If something is broken, fix it, if it needs to be cleaned, clean it.  Many of these things can be done for not so much money and can make a huge impact on the impression your home gives a buyer.  If the Seller is in a financial bind, needs to get out from under the payment or needs the cash from the sale of the home as  soon as possible then my advice is to spiff up the house as best you can price it aggressively from the beginning and sell as is.