Is there homeowners insurance for a home that needs repairs?

It depends on what type of repairs you are talking about and what type of insurance you need. I assume that you have been denied insurance due to the condition of the home, right? Talk with your agent or another agent and be up front about the situation. You probably will not be able to purchase homeowners insurance but may be able to purchase some other type of insurance on the home while you do repairs. Homeowners is only for a house that you as the owner currently live in and lack of repairs shows the company no "pride of ownership" which is a big deal. If you don't care about the house, this is not one they want to insure. Talk to the agent about the situation and it's best if you deal with an Independent Insurance Agent so that they will have several companies to choose from in helping you.