More Contracts Are Falling Through. Here’s How To Get Ahead

When you sell a house, the last thing you want is for the deal to fall apart right before closing. But according to recent data, that’s happening more often than usual.

The good news is: it’s completely avoidable if you understand why contracts fall through and how to protect yourself as a seller.

Why Deals Are Falling Apart

In June, about 15% of pending home sales didn’t make it to the finish line. That’s slightly higher than the usual 12% we’ve seen in past years.

So, what’s driving this trend?

• Inspection Issues: The number one reason deals collapse is because of problems uncovered during the home inspection. With high home prices and mortgage rates already stretching buyers’ budgets, they have less flexibility when unexpected repair costs pop up.

• More Choices for Buyers: With more inventory on the market, buyers don’t feel locked into one property. If your home inspection reveals major issues, they may decide to walk away and pursue another option.

• Repair Disagreements: If sellers refuse to handle repairs—or buyers don’t want the added expense of fixing them—contracts can unravel quickly.

The Seller’s Secret Weapon: Pre-Listing Inspections

Fortunately, there’s a proactive way to avoid these headaches: getting a pre-listing inspection.

This is a professional inspection you schedule before putting your home on the market. While it’s not required, it can make a big difference. Here’s why it works:

• Gives You Time To Fix Issues: You’ll know upfront what repairs might concern buyers, giving you time to address them on your terms.

• Prevents Last-Minute Surprises: By uncovering potential deal-breakers early, you can avoid last-minute renegotiations or canceled contracts.

• Builds Buyer Confidence: When buyers see you’ve already had the home inspected and maintained, it builds trust and makes your property stand out.

A few hundred dollars for an inspection now can save you thousands in unexpected costs—or even a lost deal—later.

Should Every Seller Do a Pre-Listing Inspection?

Not necessarily. Whether it’s the right move depends on your home, your market, and your situation. That’s where your real estate agent comes in. They can:

• Advise on which repairs are worth tackling before listing

• Help you decide whether to fix or disclose each issue

• Ensure you’re meeting all local disclosure requirements

Bottom Line

If you want to minimize the risk of a deal falling apart, a pre-listing inspection could be your best strategy. Talk to your real estate agent to see if it’s the right move for your home.

Would you rather discover a major repair now—when you have time to handle it on your terms—or after you’re under contract, when your options are limited?

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