You’ve got an offer. The sign says “Under Contract.” The finish line is in sight… but not so fast. Between now and closing day, a lot can happen — and one small misstep could cause your deal to fall apart.

The good news? There’s one simple, proactive step that can dramatically improve your chances of a smooth, stress-free sale.

Why Some Home Sales Are Hitting Speed Bumps

According to the latest Redfin data, about 15% of pending home sales fall through before closing — slightly higher than the pre-2020 average of 12%. In other words, roughly 1 in 7 deals don’t make it to the closing table.

But that also means 6 out of 7 do — and with a little preparation, you can make sure yours is one of them.

You might think the main culprit is financing. Surprisingly, it’s not. The biggest reason buyers are backing out today? Inspection and repair issues.

Here’s what’s happening:

• Buyers are already stretched by high prices and mortgage rates, so they’re less willing to take on big repairs.
• They want homes that are as “move-in ready” as possible.
• With more listings available, if your home feels like too much work — they’ll simply move on to the next one.

That’s where savvy sellers (and their agents) are staying one step ahead with something called a pre-listing inspection.

What’s a Pre-Listing Inspection — and Why It Matters

A pre-listing inspection is exactly what it sounds like: you hire a professional inspector before putting your home on the market. It’s a small investment that can prevent big surprises later.

The National Association of Realtors (NAR) explains it perfectly:

“To keep deals from unraveling, it allows a seller the opportunity to address any repairs before the For Sale sign even goes up.”

Think of it as your behind-the-scenes prep. You’ll know if your roof needs attention, if that old water heater might raise flags, or if there’s an electrical issue hiding behind the walls.

When the buyer’s inspector eventually shows up, you’ll already know what to expect — and you’ll be ready. No last-minute scrambling. No deal on the brink.

Is It Worth the Cost?

Most pre-listing inspections cost just a few hundred dollars — but the peace of mind (and deal security) they offer? Priceless.

That said, every market is different. In some areas, it’s a must-do. In others, not so much. That’s why it’s important to talk to your local real estate agent first. A great agent will help you:

• Decide which issues are worth fixing before you list.
• Prioritize what buyers in your area care about most.
• Connect you with reliable contractors for repairs.
• Make sure you understand what must be disclosed legally.

Bottom Line

If one simple step could help you avoid deal-breaking surprises and make your sale smoother — wouldn’t you take it?

A pre-listing inspection can give you the confidence and control you need to sell your home without unnecessary stress. Let’s talk about whether it makes sense for your home and market — so when you hit the market, you’re fully prepared to cross that finish line like a pro.