Under Contract? 10 Seller Mistakes That Can Still Kill the Deal
Eddie Van Buskirk • June 25, 2025
You found a buyer, you signed the contract, and now you’re just waiting to close—right?
Not so fast.
Some of the most common (and expensive) real estate mistakes happen after the offer is accepted. The good news? If you're the seller, you can avoid almost all of them with the right game plan.
At KC Legacy Properties, we help our sellers close with confidence—not chaos. Here are 10 avoidable reasons your home sale might fall apart, and how to steer clear of every one:
1. Delaying Agreed-Upon Repairs
If you promised to fix something, get it done—on time. Buyers can legally walk if you don’t deliver.
2. Blocking Appraisals or Inspections
Don’t cancel or restrict access. It slows the process and raises red flags for buyers.
3. Trying to Renegotiate After Signing
The contract is the contract. Changing dates, keeping appliances, or adding new demands puts the deal at risk.
4. Hiding Known Issues
Undisclosed problems (like mold or foundation cracks) almost always surface—and buyers don’t like surprises.
5. Not Being Ready to Move
If you can’t hand over keys on time, you’re breaking the agreement. Have a real exit plan, not a guess.
6. Title Problems
Unpaid taxes, old liens, or ownership disputes? They’ll come up. Address them early to avoid delays or cancellations.
7. Leaving the Home in Bad Condition
Buyers do a final walkthrough for a reason. If the home is dirty, damaged, or missing agreed-upon items, they can walk away at the finish line.
8. Getting Cold Feet
Once you're under contract, backing out isn’t just emotional—it can lead to legal trouble. Be sure before you list.
9. Ignoring Paperwork or Deadlines
Missing documents or delayed responses can tank your timeline. Stay responsive and on top of everything.
10. Overreacting to Buyer Requests
Not every inspection request is personal. Stay calm and negotiate smart—small concessions can save the whole deal.
Thinking About Selling?
Just getting to contract isn’t enough—you need to get to closing. At KC Legacy Properties, we help homeowners navigate every step of the sale with expert advice, full transparency, and no pressure.
Have questions about your situation? Let’s talk.
Your home, your timeline, your terms—with the guidance you deserve.




