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Uncategorized • March 17, 2026

The #1 Reason Buyers Walk Away (And How To Get Ahead of It)

by Wendy Barry

You may have seen headlines on social media saying the number of buyers backing out of home contracts is rising, reaching levels not seen since 2017. While that might sound concerning, the reality is that this trend can vary greatly depending on the local market.

More importantly, there is often one main reason deals fall apart — and it is something sellers can actually prepare for and manage.

The Biggest Dealbreaker: Home Inspection Issues

According to a survey from Redfin, more than 70 percent of recently cancelled contracts happened because problems were uncovered during the home inspection.a screenshot of a surveyThis makes sense in today’s market. Buyers now have something they did not have a few years ago — more options.

Why Repairs Matter More in Today’s Market

During the peak of the competitive market, buyers often overlooked certain issues because there were so few homes available. Many felt pressured to move quickly.

Today, that dynamic has shifted.

With more inventory on the market, buyers can afford to be selective. If a home feels like it may come with costly repairs, hidden issues, or potential risks, many buyers will simply move on to another property.

This is why addressing key maintenance items before listing your home can make a significant difference.

How a Real Estate Agent Can Help

A knowledgeable local agent can walk through your home and help identify which repairs or improvements may be worth addressing before you list. Their experience in the local market can help you prioritize the updates that matter most to buyers.

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

  • Roof damage or leaks

  • Plumbing problems such as leaks or water damage

  • Electrical concerns like outdated wiring or missing GFCI outlets

  • HVAC systems that are not functioning properly

  • Pest or insect damage, including termites

  • Hazardous materials such as mold, lead, or asbestos

  • Safety or code violations

  • Structural concerns like foundation cracks or sagging floors

Of course, not all of these issues apply to every home. In some cases, there may only be one or two items to address — or none at all. The key is knowing what buyers in your market are most likely to notice.

The Value of a Pre-Listing Inspection

For buyers, inspection findings are not just about repairs — they are about trust. Once buyers start wondering what other problems might be hiding behind the walls, it can be difficult to regain their confidence.

This is why some agents recommend a pre-listing inspection. It allows sellers to see potential concerns before a buyer does.

With that information, you can:

  • Make necessary repairs before listing

  • Disclose issues upfront

  • Avoid last-minute negotiations under pressure

  • Plan repairs without rushing before closing

That said, you do not need to fix every single item. The goal is to focus on the issues that are most likely to impact the sale.

A trusted agent can help you decide:

  • Whether a pre-listing inspection makes sense in your market

  • Which inspector to work with

  • What repairs are worth making

  • When offering a credit might make more sense than completing repairs

Bottom Line

Inspection issues are one of the most common reasons home sales fall through — but the good news is that many of these problems can be addressed before your home even hits the market.

Being proactive with key repairs can help build buyer confidence and keep your sale moving forward.

If you want guidance on where to focus before listing your home, connecting with a knowledgeable agent can make all the difference.

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