Selling a commercial property can be challenging enough—but when your building has code violations or structural issues, it can feel nearly impossible. You might be asking yourself, “Can I still sell my property if it doesn’t meet local building standards?” The good news: yes, you can. Many investors and buyers are still willing to purchase properties that need repairs or updates—especially if you’re willing to sell commercial property as-is.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through what “as-is” means, how to prepare your property for sale, and the steps you can take to get a fair offer without spending thousands on repairs.
Understanding What It Means to Sell a Commercial Property As-Is
When you sell commercial property as-is, you’re agreeing to sell it in its current condition—without making any repairs or upgrades before closing. The buyer accepts the property knowing there may be issues, whether they’re cosmetic, structural, or related to code compliance.
This approach can be ideal if your property:
- Has ongoing code violations or fines.
- Needs expensive structural repairs (like foundation or roof work).
- Contains outdated electrical, plumbing, or HVAC systems.
- Has environmental concerns, such as asbestos or water damage.
- Has been sitting vacant for months or years.
Instead of fixing everything—which can take months and require permits—you can sell directly to a cash buyer who specializes in distressed or value-add properties.
At The Gulf Coast Property Group, we buy commercial properties across Florida as-is, helping owners close quickly and move forward without the stress of renovations or legal compliance delays.
Step 1: Identify the Type of Code Violations or Structural Issues
Before selling, it’s important to understand exactly what’s wrong with your property. Common commercial code violations in Florida include:
- Faulty or noncompliant electrical systems
- Structural foundation cracks
- Roof deterioration
- Fire code issues (missing sprinklers, alarms, or exits)
- ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility violations
- Unsafe plumbing or sewer systems
You can contact your local building department or city code enforcement office to request a record of existing violations. In Florida, most counties offer public access to this information through their property appraiser or code enforcement website.
Knowing the extent of your violations helps you determine whether the property is worth repairing—or if it’s better to sell the commercial property as-is and let a professional investor handle the improvements.
Step 2: Weigh the Costs of Repairs vs. Selling As-Is
Not all violations or structural problems require a full teardown, but commercial repairs can quickly get expensive.
For example:
- Roof replacement: $50,000+
- Foundation repair: $20,000–$100,000
- Electrical system upgrade: $10,000–$30,000
- ADA retrofitting: $15,000–$50,000
If your building has multiple issues, the total repair cost may exceed its current market value. In that case, selling as-is to a cash buyer could save you months of hassle and financial risk.
💡 Tip: Always get a few quotes from contractors so you have a realistic picture of the repair costs. This helps when negotiating a fair offer with potential buyers.
Step 3: Gather Important Property Documents
Even when selling a commercial property as-is, organization matters. Having your documents in order builds confidence with buyers and helps streamline the sale.
Be ready to provide:
- Title and ownership records
- Recent tax bills
- Environmental or inspection reports (if available)
- Any correspondence with code enforcement
- Lease agreements (if tenants are still in place)
Transparency helps reduce back-and-forth during negotiations—and can make your as-is sale move much faster.
Step 4: Work With a Buyer Experienced in As-Is Transactions
Traditional buyers or commercial agents may shy away from code violations or structural problems. Instead, look for cash buyers or real estate investors who regularly purchase distressed commercial properties.
These buyers often have:
- Experience navigating code enforcement issues
- Access to private funding (so no waiting on bank approval)
- In-house crews who handle renovations after closing
At The Gulf Coast Property Group, we specialize in buying properties with challenges—whether they’re outdated, damaged, or in need of significant repairs. We handle everything from title work to closing, ensuring you get paid fast without repair obligations or inspection delays.
👉 Learn more about how we buy commercial properties in Florida here.
Step 5: Be Honest and Transparent With Buyers
While you’re selling the property as-is, honesty is still essential. Always disclose known structural issues, past inspection results, or open code violations.
This not only protects you legally but also attracts serious buyers who understand the risks and still see potential in the property.
Failing to disclose major issues could delay closing—or worse, result in legal disputes after the sale.
Step 6: Understand the As-Is Sale Process
Selling a commercial property as-is typically follows a straightforward process:
- Property Assessment: A buyer will evaluate the property (sometimes virtually or with a brief walk-through).
- Offer Submission: You receive a no-obligation cash offer, usually within 24–72 hours.
- Offer Review: You can accept, reject, or negotiate the offer terms.
- Title and Escrow: Once accepted, the buyer’s team handles title searches and closing paperwork.
- Closing: You get paid—often within 7–30 days, depending on the agreement.
Because cash buyers don’t rely on traditional financing, there’s no waiting for loan approvals or appraisal contingencies.
Step 7: Avoid Common Mistakes When Selling As-Is
Here are a few pitfalls to avoid:
- Ignoring violations: Unpaid fines or liens can delay the sale. Make sure to disclose and discuss them with the buyer.
- Overpricing: As-is properties are valued based on condition, location, and potential. Overpricing can scare away serious investors.
- Choosing the wrong buyer: Always work with an experienced, local investor—preferably one familiar with Florida’s commercial codes and markets.
If your commercial property has fallen behind on maintenance or has multiple code violations, don’t panic. You don’t have to face endless repairs, fines, or months of waiting for the “right” buyer.
Selling your commercial property as-is could be the fastest, simplest way to get cash in hand and move on to your next opportunity.
At The Gulf Coast Property Group, we make fair, fast, and transparent offers on properties just like yours—any condition, any situation, anywhere in Florida. Call us at (850) 203-5788.