Top 10 Home Inspection Deal Breakers—And How Sellers Can Prevent Them

WISDOM HIS-Michael Hetzel
Jun 11
3 min read

Updated: Jul 10

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Nothing slams the brakes on a promising home sale faster than a surprise during the home inspection. Just when you thought you were headed to closing, the buyer’s inspector finds a cracked foundation or an outdated electrical panel—and suddenly, negotiations get tense or the deal falls apart entirely.

But here’s the good news: Most deal-killers are entirely preventable with a little foresight and a proactive approach.

Here are the Top 10 home inspection issues that most often threaten a sale—and how smart sellers like you can get ahead of them.

🛠️ 1. Roof Trouble

Why It Kills Deals: Missing shingles, leaks, or aging materials signal big-ticket repairs.Prevent It: Get a roofing pro to inspect and patch in advance. A few hundred bucks now beats thousands off the sale price later.

⚡ 2. Electrical Hazards

Why It Kills Deals: Outdated wiring or ungrounded outlets can be a safety and fire hazard.Prevent It: Have a licensed electrician update panels or wiring in high-risk areas (kitchen, bathroom, garage).

A sharp eye on siding, drainage, and roof lines can prevent the kind of water intrusion that buyers walk away from.

💧 3. Moisture & Mold

Why It Kills Deals: Damp crawlspaces or mold scares buyers (and their lenders).Prevent It: Use a dehumidifier, check gutters and downspouts, and make sure water is shed away from the foundation. The simple addition of extensions on downspouts and a splash block may be enough to eliminate water intrusion—which often leads to mold and those musty odors.

🔥 4. HVAC Issues

Why It Kills Deals: If the system doesn't heat or cool properly, buyers assume major expense.Prevent It: Schedule a professional HVAC tune-up and keep the receipt as proof.Note: Home inspectors do not take furnaces apart or check the coolant charge in an AC system—they simply check if the units are operational.

🚰 5. Plumbing Leaks

Why It Kills Deals: Leaks = potential water damage = red flags.Prevent It: Slow or gurgling drains, damp or pooling water under sinks, or warped cabinet bottoms are red flags to potential buyers. Consider having a plumber check things out in advance and make minor repairs.

🧱 6. Foundation Cracks

Why It Kills Deals: Visible cracks raise structural fears.Prevent It: Most hairline cracks are harmless, but get a professional to confirm and document it.

🪟 7. Windows & Doors That Stick

Why It Kills Deals: It hints at settling, moisture, or insulation problems.Prevent It: Adjust hardware or replace rotting frames—quick fixes go a long way.

🐭 8. Pest or Rodent Activity

Why It Kills Deals: Nobody wants to inherit an infestation.Prevent It: Call in pest control, especially in older homes or rural areas.

🏠 9. Poor Attic Insulation or Ventilation

Why It Kills Deals: Heat loss, ice dams, or mold risk are real concerns.Prevent It: Add insulation or improve airflow before listing.

A visible foundation crack doesn't always mean major structural damage—but it always needs inspection, documentation, and smart communication.

🧯 10. Safety Code Violations

Why It Kills Deals: Missing handrails, no GFCIs, or unpermitted work can delay underwriting.Prevent It: Fix the basics and disclose what you know—transparency builds trust.

✅ The Bottom Line: How to Avoid Common Home Inspection Deal Breakers

A buyer’s inspection shouldn’t be a game of “gotcha.” When sellers anticipate home inspection deal breakers and address them early, everyone wins.

Want a printable checklist? Download our free “Top 10 Deal Killers – Quick Fix Checklist for Sellers” PDF to get actionable fixes and peace of mind before inspection day.

Download the PDF

🗓️ Coming Next Week:“What Real Estate Agents Wish Sellers Knew About Home Inspections”Straight talk from your agent’s perspecti