5 Common Home Repairs That Can Delay a Sale (And How to Avoid Them)

5 Common Home Repairs That Can Delay a Sale (And How to Avoid Them)

Selling your home is an exciting step, but unexpected repair issues can quickly derail your timeline—and even cost you the sale. The last thing you want is for a buyer’s home inspection to uncover major problems, leading to delays, renegotiations, or worse, a lost deal. The good news? Many of these issues can be addressed before you even list your home!

Here are five common home repairs that can delay a sale and how to avoid them:

1. Roof Replacement

A roof in poor condition is one of the biggest red flags for buyers and lenders alike. Many loan programs, including VA and FHA loans, require a roof to have a certain number of years left in its lifespan. If your roof is approaching the end of its life or has active leaks, consider getting a roof inspection before listing. If replacement is needed, start the process early to prevent last-minute surprises.

2. Aging or Rusted Water Heater

Water heaters have a typical lifespan of 10-15 years. If yours is older or showing signs of rust, it may fail a home inspection. Buyers may request a replacement or, in some cases, walk away altogether. Replacing an aging water heater before listing can give buyers peace of mind and prevent delays.

3. Standing Water in the Yard

Drainage issues can be a major concern, especially in Florida’s rainy climate. Pools of standing water in your yard can indicate poor drainage, leading to potential foundation problems or flooding concerns. Addressing these issues with proper landscaping, French drains, or grading improvements can help eliminate concerns before they arise.

4. Cracked Windows or Peeling Paint

While a single cracked window or some peeling paint may seem minor, they can be big red flags—especially for buyers using VA or FHA loans. These loans have strict appraisal standards, and issues like cracked windows, peeling paint, or wood rot can cause financing delays. Taking care of these minor cosmetic fixes before listing can keep your sale on track.

5. Changes Since the Home Inspection

One of the biggest surprises that can delay closing is when something changes between the initial home inspection and closing day. For vacant homes, this is especially risky. We’ve seen situations where a pool lining popped or new water damage appeared after the inspection. If your home is vacant, consider having someone check on it regularly to ensure no new issues arise before closing.

Get Ahead of Potential Issues. Address These 5 Common Repairs.

The key to a smooth home sale is preparation. By addressing these common home repairs before listing, you can avoid delays, prevent buyer hesitation, and keep your transaction moving forward seamlessly. If you’re unsure where to start, a pre-listing inspection can help identify any potential red flags early.