If there was one simple step that could help make your home sale a seamless process, wouldn’t you want to know about it? There’s a lot that happens from the time your house goes under contract to closing day. And while a few things must align perfectly for the deal to go through, many roadblocks are completely avoidable — especially when you know where to look and prepare in advance.
What’s Causing Some Buyers To Back Out
According to recent data from Redfin, around 15% of pending home sales are falling through — slightly higher than the 12% pre-pandemic average. The main culprit? Inspection and repair issues.
Here’s why:
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Buyers today are already stretched by higher prices and mortgage rates.
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They prefer move-in-ready homes and avoid unexpected repairs.
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With more homes available, they can easily walk away if issues arise.
That’s why experienced agents are now recommending sellers take a proactive step: a pre-listing inspection.
What’s a Pre-Listing Inspection?
A pre-listing inspection is exactly what it sounds like — a professional home inspection conducted before your home goes on the market. While it’s not required, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) says it can prevent deals from unraveling:
“It allows a seller the opportunity to address any repairs before the For Sale sign even goes up... and helps avoid surprises like costly plumbing or roof problems that could make buyers back out.”
By getting ahead of potential issues, you’ll know what to fix, what to disclose, and how to position your home with confidence.
Is It Worth It?
A pre-listing inspection typically costs just a few hundred dollars — a small investment compared to the value it can protect. However, its impact depends on your local market.
If your agent recommends it, they’ll:
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Help you prioritize which repairs matter most
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Connect you with reliable local contractors
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Ensure you comply with all local disclosure laws
This simple step could be the difference between a delayed closing and a smooth, successful sale.
Bottom Line
If one simple step could keep your home sale on track, wouldn’t you take it? A pre-listing inspection can give you the peace of mind and control you need to move confidently through closing day.
💬 Ready to sell with confidence? Let’s talk about whether a pre-listing inspection makes sense for your home: https://aceestate.com/
