Contracts Are Slipping. Here’s How to Stay Ahead of the Curve.

When you’re selling your home, the last thing you want is for the deal to collapse right before closing. Yet, according to new Redfin data, that’s happening more often than before. The good news? With the right guidance from a trusted agent, you can take steps to prevent it.

In June, 15% of pending sales were canceled—buyers walked away from their contracts. That’s up from the typical 12% we saw between 2017 and 2019. While the increase may not sound dramatic, it’s still an added risk no seller wants to face.

So, what’s behind these last-minute cancellations? A recent survey by John Burns Research and Consulting (JBREC) and Keeping Current Matters (KCM) points to one leading culprit: the home inspection. As the chart below shows, it’s the number one reason today’s deals are falling apart.

Why This Happens. With today’s high home prices and elevated mortgage rates, buyers’ budgets are already stretched thin. That leaves little room—or patience—for surprise repairs. On top of that, inventory has grown, which means buyers now have more choices. If an inspection reveals a costly issue, many won’t think twice about walking away. After all, there are plenty of other homes on the market.

Sometimes, it’s not even about the issue itself—it’s about the expense and hassle of fixing it. If the seller isn’t willing to handle repairs, buyers may prefer to back out rather than take on the risk themselves.

The Solution: A Pre-Listing Inspection

The good news? Sellers can get ahead of these problems with a pre-listing inspection. While not required, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) explains why it’s so valuable right now:

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 It also can help avoid surprises like a costly plumbing problem, a failing roof, or an outdated electrical panel that could cause financially stretched buyers to bolt before closing.”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

A pre-listing inspection is simply a professional home inspection you schedule before your property goes on the market. Here’s why it can help:

• ✅ Time to Fix What Matters – Address potential red flags before buyers see them.
• ✅ Avoid Last-Minute Negotiations – Prevent surprise concessions, price drops, or even cancellations.
• ✅ Avoid Last-Minute Negotiations – Prevent surprise concessions, price drops, or even cancellations.

The bottom line? Spending a few hundred dollars upfront could save you thousands—and spare you a lot of stress—later.

Is It Right for Every Seller?

Not always. The decision depends on your house, your market, and your goals. That’s where your real estate agent comes in. They’ll guide you on whether to repair or disclose issues, help prioritize what buyers in your area care about most, and ensure you stay compliant with disclosure laws.

Bottom Line

Thinking of selling? A pre-listing inspection could be your best insurance against last-minute deal breakers that derail your sale. It gives you the chance to spot potential issues early, address them on your terms, and go into the listing process with more confidence. Your agent can help you decide if it’s the right move for your home and your local market.

At the end of the day, it comes down to control. Would you rather tackle a repair before your home ever hits the market—or scramble to negotiate when a buyer’s already waiting and the pressure is on? Taking the proactive route can save you stress, money, and time, while making your home stand out as a stronger, more reliable choice for buyers.