What Makes Buyers Walk Away? Here’s How to Stay Ahead

You may have come across headlines claiming buyer contract cancellations are rising—reaching levels not seen since 2017. While that may sound concerning, the reality varies significantly by market.

Here’s what matters most if you’re planning to sell: there’s often one common reason—and it’s something you can control.

Here’s how to stay ahead of the biggest dealbreaker before it ever becomes an issue.

The Biggest Dealbreaker: Inspection Issues

A Redfin survey found that more than 70% of recently canceled contracts fell through due to issues uncovered during the home inspection (see graph below).

And it makes sense. Today’s buyers have something they didn’t have a few years ago—more options.

Why Addressing Issues Before Listing Matters More Than Ever

A few years ago, when inventory was tight and buyers felt pressure to act quickly, they were more likely to overlook issues. Today, skipping essential repairs is one of the quickest ways to lose a deal.

With more homes on the market, buyers can afford to be selective. If a property feels risky, outdated, or full of potential surprises, they’re much more likely to walk away. Not sure what to fix? Ask an agent.

How Your Agent Helps You Stay Ahead

A local agent can walk through your home and recommend what to address based on your property, your market, and what buyers are prioritizing in your area. They also bring firsthand insight into today’s biggest buyer turnoffs—helping you avoid issues before they arise.

According to Zillow, these are some of the issues buyers pay the closest attention to:

• Roof damage or leaks (sagging, active leaks, etc.)
• Plumbing concerns (standing water, leaks, water damage)
• Electrical issues (outdated or exposed wiring, missing GFCI outlets)
• HVAC problems (non-functioning systems)
• Pest damage (termites, infestations)
• Hazardous materials (lead, mold, asbestos)
• Safety or code issues (missing smoke detectors, stuck windows)
• Structural concerns (foundation cracks, sagging floors)

Not all of these will apply to your home—maybe just one or two, or possibly none at all. It varies. But an agent has the tools and resources to help you identify what matters and stay ahead.

The Advantage of Getting a Pre-Listing Inspection

To buyers, these aren’t just cosmetic flaws—they’re trust concerns. And that’s what matters most today. Once they start asking, “What else could be wrong?” it’s tough to regain momentum.

That’s why some agents recommend a pre-listing inspection—it gives you an early look at what buyers are likely to uncover. With that insight, you can:

• Address issues before listing or disclose them upfront
• Avoid negotiating under pressure
• Plan repairs ahead of time instead of scrambling before closing

But keep in mind—you don’t have to fix everything. You just need to be strategic about what you address so no one is caught off guard.

That’s why working with the right agent matters. They can:

• Determine if a pre-listing inspection makes sense in your market
• Connect you with a trusted inspector
• Review the results to identify true dealbreakers locally
• Guide you on what to repair versus credit
• Help you avoid over-spending or under-preparing

Bottom Line

Inspection issues are one of the biggest reasons deals fall apart today—but it’s something you can get ahead of. Focus on high-impact repairs before listing. If you’re unsure where to start, connect with an agent.

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