What Can Make a Florida Home Sale Fall Through?

Accepting an offer is exciting—but your Florida home sale isn’t finished until the deal closes.

Roughly 10–15% of residential real estate contracts don’t make it to the finish line, even after going under contract. Knowing what can go wrong—and how to prevent it—can save you from lost time, money, and frustration.

Here are the top deal-breakers Florida sellers should watch for.

1. Financing Falls Apart

The buyer may be pre-approved, but that doesn’t mean final approval is guaranteed.

Sales fall through when:

• The buyer changes jobs or credit status
• The lender finds new debt or discrepancies
• Appraisal comes in low and the buyer can’t cover the gap

💡 Tip: Favor offers with strong financing, local lenders, and large down payments.

2. Home Inspection Surprises

Buyers often use the inspection period to back out or negotiate repairs. Red flags include:

• Foundation cracks
• Roof or plumbing issues
• Mold or termites
• Electrical system concerns

💡 Tip: Consider a pre-listing inspection to avoid surprises.

3. Appraisal Below Contract Price

If the home appraises for less than the sale price, the lender may deny financing unless:

• The buyer covers the difference
• You reduce the price
• You renegotiate the terms

💡 Tip: Price strategically based on comps.

4. Title or Legal Issues

Common issues that derail closings:

• Unpaid property taxes or liens
• Boundary disputes
• Missing signatures or ownership errors
• Probate complications

💡 Tip: Run a title search early with a trusted title company.

5. HOA or Condo Document Delays

Florida sellers in managed communities must provide timely documentation:

• Estoppel certificates
• Governing documents
• Disclosures on pending violations

💡 Tip: Gather HOA docs before listing or right after accepting an offer.

6. Cold Feet or Buyer’s Remorse

Some buyers simply walk away—often during the inspection period.

💡 Tip: Choose well-qualified buyers represented by experienced agents.

7. Seller Errors

Don’t be your own deal-breaker. Mistakes include:

• Poor communication
• Document delays
• Refusing reasonable repairs or credits
• Making large changes mid-contract

💡 Tip: Stay proactive, open, and on schedule.

Stay Ahead of Deal Killers

Most failed sales are preventable with good planning, strong representation, and proactive communication. Michael Renick and Team Renick – Mangrove Realty Associates Inc. help sellers anticipate every obstacle and stay one step ahead.

📌 Explore More Florida Seller Tips

Also publishing today: What Paperwork Do You Need to Sell a Home in Florida?

📣 Ready to Sell? Let’s Talk.

• 📞 Call Michael directly at 941.400.8735
• 🌴 Read more Florida seller tips
• 🏡 See how Team Renick does real estate differently
• 🔍 Search Florida homes for sale