I've always told 'em what they want to hear. I bought a '75 Valiant to replace the engine and drive train in his '70 Dart, which was in much better shape. The seller wanted to see pics after I was done. I should have sent him one from Pick Your Part! I was that guy, this one time.
I usually buy to fix up, though.
Just like when we sold our last house, the wife didn't want them to rent it. She was assured that they wouldn't. About a month after it sold, it was up for rent!
Ain't my house anymore, I wouldn't care if they burned it down, except for the waste factor.