If there was one simple step that could help make your home sale a seamless process, wouldn’t you want to know about it?
A lot happens from the moment your house goes under contract to the moment you sit down at the closing table. And while most deals do make it all the way through, there are still a few important things that need to go right. What many sellers don’t realize is that there’s one part of the process where more homeowners than expected are running into trouble—and it’s causing some buyers to walk away.
The good news?
Most of these issues are completely avoidable, especially when you understand what’s behind them and take a proactive approach. That’s where a great real estate agent—and a little preparation—can make all the difference.
Why Some Buyers Are Backing Out Today
Recent data from Redfin shows that 15% of pending home sales are falling through—up from the 12% norm seen between 2017 and 2019. While that’s not a dramatic jump, it does mean about 1 in 7 deals fail to reach the closing table.
But there’s a silver lining:
6 out of 7 sales still close successfully, and yours likely will too—especially if you know how to reduce your risk even further.
You might assume financing issues are the main culprit behind failed sales, but that’s actually not the biggest factor right now. Instead, today’s buyers are backing out for a different reason: unexpected repairs.
Here’s why these repair-related surprises are such deal breakers for buyers today:
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Tight budgets: High home prices and elevated mortgage rates have stretched buyers thin. They simply don’t have the financial room—or patience—for major surprises.
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Move-in ready expectations: If buyers are investing a significant amount, they want a home that’s ready to enjoy, not one that comes with a project list.
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More options on the market: With inventory increasing, buyers don’t have to settle. If one home becomes too complicated, they can walk away and choose another.
The sellers who are staying ahead of this shift—and keeping their deals intact—are the ones working with well-prepared agents and taking one key step before they list.
Enter: the pre-listing inspection.
What Is a Pre-Listing Inspection?
A pre-listing inspection is exactly what it sounds like:
A professional home inspection you schedule before your home goes on the market.
It’s not required, but the National Association of Realtors (NAR) highlights why it can be a smart move—especially in today’s market:
“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 eliminating the “unknowns.”
You’ll know exactly what a buyer’s inspector is likely to find—before the buyer ever sees your home. That gives you time to repair issues, disclose them upfront, or price the home accordingly.
When the buyer’s inspector eventually walks in, you’re already ready.
No surprises.
No last-minute scrambling.
No deal-breaking stress.
Is a Pre-Listing Inspection Worth It?
For most sellers, yes—especially since the average pre-listing inspection usually costs just a few hundred dollars. The peace of mind and smoother negotiation process are often well worth the investment.
However, this isn’t a one-size-fits-all strategy.
Your local agent can advise you based on:
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What issues are common in your market
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What buyers in your area prioritize
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How competitive your price range is
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Which repairs are worth fixing—and which aren’t
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Your state and local disclosure requirements
If your agent recommends a pre-listing inspection, they can also connect you with trusted inspectors and contractors so everything is handled the right way.
That one small step could save you time, money, and unnecessary stress—and help safeguard your deal.
Bottom Line
If there were one simple step that could help make your home sale go according to plan, wouldn’t you take it?
A pre-listing inspection can help you avoid surprises, stay in control, and give buyers the confidence they need to stay committed. Before you list, talk with your real estate agent about whether it makes sense for your home and market.
With the right preparation, you can hit the market confident, informed, and ready to cross the finish line.
