🚫 Top 5 Reasons Real Estate Deals Fall Through (And How to Avoid Them)

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Sep 10
2 min read

At LJ Realty Team, we believe informed clients make confident decisions. So here are the Top 5 Deal-Killers that can derail a real estate transaction—plus a few tips to help you stay ahead of the curve. — At **LJ Realty Team**, we believe informed clients make confident decisions. So here are the **Top 5 Deal-Killers** that can derail a real estate transaction—plus a few tips to help you stay ahead of the curve.

Ever get excited about a real estate deal, only to hear it fell apart at the last minute? You’re not alone. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a seasoned investor, or selling your home, knowing what can go wrong is key to making it right.

1️⃣ Financing Falls Through

Even pre-approved buyers can face last-minute loan issues—especially if their financial situation changes or they rack up new debt during escrow.

✔️ Pro Tip: Work with a reliable mortgage broker (like LJ Mortgage Team Inc.) and avoid making big purchases before closing.

2️⃣ Inspection Reveals Major Issues

No home is perfect, but serious issues like foundation cracks, mold, or roof damage can send buyers running or trigger major renegotiations.

✔️ Pro Tip: Sellers: consider a pre-listing inspection. Buyers: make sure your offer includes an inspection contingency.

3️⃣ Appraisal Comes in Low

If a lender's appraisal values the home below the offer price, the buyer may need to bring in more cash or walk away.

✔️ Pro Tip: Work with a local agent who knows how to price and negotiate strategically, and be prepared to challenge a low appraisal if needed.

4️⃣ Contingency (Like a Home-Sale) Fails

Sometimes a buyer needs to sell their current home to afford the new one. If that first deal falls through, so does the second.

✔️ Pro Tip: Choose contingency timelines wisely, and always have a backup plan if your sale is linked to another transaction.

5️⃣ Cold Feet or Mismanagement

Emotions run high in real estate. Buyers or sellers might panic, delay paperwork, or simply get overwhelmed.

✔️ Pro Tip: Partner with a trusted real estate team to guide you through every step, keep communication clear, and manage expectations.

✅ Knowledge = Power

Real estate doesn’t have to be unpredictable. When you’re backed by local experts who know how to navigate the bumps in the road, your path to closing becomes a lot smoother.