Before You Put Your Home on the Market: One Step That May Help Protect Your Sale
For many homeowners, selling a longtime family home is an emotional milestone. Whether you’re downsizing, relocating, or simplifying your lifestyle, the decision often comes after years of careful thought.
But once the decision is made, the next phase—preparing your home for sale—can introduce surprises that derail even the most promising transaction.
There is one proactive step that can help reduce uncertainty, protect your negotiating position, and increase the likelihood of a smooth closing.
A Deal Isn’t a Deal Until the Closing
Even in a strong seller’s market, a signed offer is not a guarantee. Until the closing occurs and funds change hands, nearly every buyer will insist on a comprehensive home inspection.
That inspection can uncover issues you may be completely unaware of, despite years of diligent home maintenance.
A Common (and Costly) Scenario
Imagine finding what appears to be the perfect buyer. They are enthusiastic, prepared to move quickly, and ready to move forward.
Before signing a Purchase and Sales Agreement, their attorney recommends a home inspection. Shortly after, your real estate agent calls with unexpected news: the inspection report has identified several issues that must be addressed.
Perhaps it’s:
- Evidence of termites
- A mold issue in the attic
- A septic system that does not meet current code
None of these problems were obvious. You’ve maintained the property responsibly, yet now you’re facing repair estimates, disruption to your daily life, and a growing sense of uncertainty.
As repairs begin, the buyer’s confidence begins to erode. Additional requests follow, and negotiations become strained. Eventually, the buyer walks away.
Now you have to put your home back on the market, with required disclosures, and the process must begin all over again.
The Emotional Impact Matters
Buying and selling a home is not purely a financial transaction. It’s deeply emotional.
When buyers encounter a steady stream of “issues,” even if they are fixable, doubt begins to creep in. Confidence can fade and deals can quickly fall apart.
The good news is that while you can’t always prevent issues from existing, you can control when and how they are discovered.
A Smarter Strategy: Inspect Before You List
An effective way to reduce surprises is to hire an independent home inspector before putting your home on the market.
This allows you to:
- Identify potential issues on your own timeline
- Address repairs proactively, without buyer pressure
- Disclose confidently and transparently
- Enter negotiations from a position of strength
While you may still incur repair costs, you can potentially avoid the far greater risk of a broken deal, renegotiated price, or extended time on the market.
The Bottom Line
Selling your home is too important to leave to chance. Before you put your home on the market, consider taking this one proactive step so you can enter the selling process with clarity and confidence rather than uncertainty. It can make all the difference between a smooth transition and a stressful, drawnout process.
This is intended for informational purposes only. You should not assume that any discussion or information contained in this document serves as the receipt of, or as a substitute for, personalized investment advice from Savant. Please consult your investment professional regarding your unique situation.
Presented By:
Jack Phelps
Managing Partner / Financial Advisor