How To Ensure Your Home Sale Reaches the Finish Line
If there were one straightforward move that could help make your home sale run smoothly, wouldn’t you want to know what it is?
A lot unfolds between the moment your house goes under contract and the day you officially close. Several things still need to align for the sale to go through successfully. What many sellers might not realize is that there’s a particular stage in the process where some homeowners are hitting unexpected snags — ones that are causing buyers to back out. The good news? Most of these issues are completely preventable once you understand what’s behind them and take steps in advance.
That’s exactly where a skilled agent — and some early preparation — can make all the difference.
What’s Causing Some Buyers To Walk Away
According to recent data from Redfin, about 15% of pending home sales are falling through — slightly higher than the 12% average from 2017–2019. That means around 1 in 7 sales don’t make it to closing. Still, 6 out of 7 do — and chances are, yours will too. But you can further lower the risk by knowing what’s driving those cancellations and staying one step ahead.
Contrary to what many assume, financing issues aren’t the main reason deals collapse. The biggest deal-breaker today is inspection and repair problems (see graph below).
Here’s why this has become a key sticking point for buyers:
Many are already financially stretched by high home prices and interest rates, so they don’t want the burden of costly or unexpected repairs.
If they’re spending that much, they expect a home that’s move-in ready — not one that needs additional work.
With more inventory available, they can easily skip a property that feels like too much trouble.
Sellers who are working with experienced agents know this trend well — and they’re getting ahead of it with a proactive step: the pre-listing inspection.
What Is a Pre-Listing Inspection?
It’s exactly what it sounds like — a professional inspection conducted before your home goes on the market. While not mandatory, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) highlights why it’s becoming a smart move for sellers today:
“To keep deals from unraveling . . . it allows a seller the opportunity to address any repairs before the For Sale sign even goes up. It also can help avoid surprises like a costly plumbing problem, a failing roof or an outdated electrical panel that could cause financially stretched buyers to bolt before closing.”
Think of it as an early safeguard. You’ll know ahead of time what potential red flags could arise during a buyer’s inspection — giving you the chance to either fix them or disclose them upfront.
That means when the buyer’s inspector comes through, you’re ready. No hidden issues. No last-minute stress. No risk of losing the deal.
Is It Worth Doing?
On average, a pre-listing inspection costs only a few hundred dollars — a relatively small investment for such valuable insight. Still, it’s best to consult your local agent before deciding.
Depending on your market, a pre-listing inspection may or may not be necessary. Your agent will know what’s most effective in your area and can help you:
Identify which issues are worth fixing
Prioritize repairs that matter most to buyers in your market
Recommend trusted professionals for any needed work
Ensure compliance with local disclosure requirements
That one simple step could protect your deal — and keep your timeline intact.
Final Thoughts
If there were one easy step that could help ensure your home sale goes off without a hitch, wouldn’t you take it?
A pre-listing inspection gives you the power to address potential issues before buyers even see your home — helping you stay in control of the process, avoid surprises, and move toward closing with confidence.
Let’s discuss whether scheduling one is the right move for your property so you can enter the market prepared and empowered.
