How Sellers Can Prevent Deals from Falling Through

When contracts fall apart late in the game, it costs time, money, and momentum. Nationally, 14.9% of pending home sales fell through in June, the highest June share since 2017 — and the Tampa metro was near the top at 19.2%. In a market where buyers have options and leverage, the goal is to reduce surprises and keep your deal on track. Redfin

Why contracts are unraveling right now

A recent nationwide agent survey shows inspection findings are the number one reason deals fall apart, followed by cold feet and financing issues. In a buyer friendly market with more selection, buyers walk away when inspection items feel costly or risky.

The seller’s advantage: a pre listing inspection

A pre listing inspection is a professional inspection before you hit the market. It helps you:

• Spot and fix priorities early. Tackle safety, roof, plumbing, electrical, or HVAC concerns on your timeline so they do not derail negotiations.
• Price and disclose with confidence. You can price with known conditions and provide documentation to build buyer trust.
• Avoid last minute renegotiations. Fewer surprises means fewer concessions or cancellations once you are under contract. National Association of REALTORS®

Tampa Bay realities to plan for

In Hillsborough County and nearby areas, buyers are scrutinizing inspection items and insurance costs more than in past years. If roof age, four point findings, or wind mitigation come up, quotes can push buyer payments higher and increase the chance of cancellation. Getting ahead of those items — or pricing them in — keeps your deal moving. Redfin

What to inspect and improve first

Focus your pre market plan on the issues most likely to spook buyers or trigger lender or insurer concerns:

• Roofing condition and remaining life
• Electrical panels, GFCIs, and visible wiring issues
• Active leaks, plumbing materials, and water heater age
• HVAC age and performance
• Evidence of moisture intrusion or wood destroying organisms
• Safety items like handrails and smoke detectors

Not every cosmetic item needs repair, but clean presentation and clear documentation reduce objections.

How we help sellers keep deals together

We pair inspection insight with pricing, presentation, and contract strategy:

• Prioritize what to fix vs. disclose. We will help you decide which items add the most net value to repair and which to disclose up front with quotes.
• Vendor coordination. We can connect you with reputable local pros for quick estimates and targeted repairs.
• Price with today’s comps, not yesterday’s headlines. Right pricing attracts stronger, more committed buyers and minimizes fallout. See Avoid These 3 Pitfalls of Overpricing Your Home.
• Guided negotiation. From inspection responses to appraisal gaps, we manage the details so you stay in control. For more on the value of representation, read Why Skipping an Agent Often Costs Sellers Real Money.

Bottom line

In a market where almost one in five Tampa contracts can fall apart, controlling the controllables matters. A pre listing inspection, right pricing, and a clear plan for repairs and disclosures can keep your sale on track and protect your net. If you are thinking about selling in Tampa, Riverview, Brandon, Westchase, or nearby, we are ready to build a plan that fits your home and timeline. Redfin