When you're preparing to sell your home, your goal is to reach the closing table without any unexpected setbacks. While recent data from Redfin shows that 15% of pending home sales fell through in June, there's great news—many of these fall-throughs are entirely preventable when you work with an experienced real estate agent who understands the market and can help you navigate potential hurdles.

Although that 15% is only slightly higher than the historical average of 12% from 2017–2019, it's a reminder that being proactive is key. Buyers today are navigating higher prices and interest rates, which means their budgets are tighter, and they’re less willing to take on surprise repairs. The good news? You can eliminate a lot of uncertainty by addressing potential issues before your home even hits the market.

A recent survey from John Burns Research and Consulting (JBREC) and Keeping Current Matters (KCM) highlights that the leading cause of deals falling apart is issues uncovered during the home inspection:

With more homes available now, buyers have choices. If a major problem shows up during their inspection, they may decide to walk away and find another home. On top of that, if sellers aren’t ready or willing to make repairs, buyers might not want to take on the added costs and stress themselves.

Fortunately, there’s a smart solution that can help you stay ahead of these challenges: getting a pre-listing inspection. It’s a simple step that can make a big difference. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR):

“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 It also can help avoid surprises like a costly plumbing problem, a failing roof or an outdated electrical panel that could cause financially stretched buyers to bolt before closing.”

What’s a Pre-Listing Inspection?

A pre-listing inspection is exactly what it sounds like: a professional inspection of your home conducted before it goes on the market. Here are just a few ways it can help you:

- Give you time to fix what matters: You’ll know what issues might come up in a buyer’s inspection, giving you time to make repairs before your home is listed.

- Avoid last-minute renegotiations: Unplanned issues discovered after you're under contract can lead to price drops, repair requests, or even a canceled deal. A pre-listing inspection helps you stay one step ahead.

- Show buyers you’re serious: A well-maintained, pre-inspected home builds confidence. It shows buyers you’ve taken the time to ensure your home is in great shape, which can lead to faster offers and smoother negotiations.

Spending a few hundred dollars now could save you thousands later and help you sell with greater peace of mind.

Is a Pre-Listing Inspection Right for Every Seller?

Not always. That’s where your trusted real estate agent comes in. They can help you decide whether a pre-listing inspection fits your specific home, situation, and market conditions. If it is the right move, your agent will walk you through every step, including:

- Helping you decide which issues to fix and which to disclose

- Prioritizing repairs based on what local buyers care about

- Ensuring you meet all local disclosure requirements

Bottom Line

If you want to avoid unnecessary stress and keep your home sale on track, consider a pre-listing inspection. It could be the key to preventing last-minute surprises and selling your home with greater ease and confidence. Wouldn’t you rather discover any major issues now, when you can address them on your own timeline, than after you’re under contract and racing against the clock?

For more guidance and to determine if a pre-listing inspection is right for you, reach out to Mike Panza and the team at Panza Home Group. They’re here to help you move forward with confidence.

Learn more or contact the team here: https://panzarealestate.com/team/mike-panza