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Happy Monday and welcome to November!
I hope everyone enjoyed a wonderful Halloween weekend! As we head into the final two months of the year, I wanted to share a little insight into what's happening in our local real estate market and address a concern I've been hearing more often from homeowners considering selling.
Here in Upland and throughout the Inland Empire, buyers are still purchasing homes, but they're taking a more thoughtful approach. Pricing, property condition, and financing are playing an increasingly important role in getting a home successfully through escrow.
After 24 years in real estate, one thing I've learned is that getting an offer is exciting, but getting to the closing table is what really matters. And that takes preparation, experience, and the right strategy.
Don't Let the Fear of a Buyer Backing Out Keep You from Selling
You may have seen headlines about more real estate transactions falling out of escrow. While canceled contracts have increased nationally, here's something important to remember: approximately 85–90% of home sales still make it through without being canceled.
Today's buyers are more cautious, especially with mortgage rates and affordability influencing their decisions. But that doesn't mean sellers should be discouraged.
According to a Redfin survey of real estate agents, three common reasons buyers back out include:
Inspection and repair concerns (70.4%) — Unexpected repairs can cause buyers to reconsider. Addressing potential issues before listing can help prevent surprises.
Financing challenges (27.8%) — Even pre-approved buyers can experience loan difficulties. Reviewing a buyer's financial qualifications before accepting an offer is essential.
Home-sale contingencies (21%) — When buyers or sellers need to sell their existing home first, it can add another layer of uncertainty to the transaction.
These survey percentages reflect reasons agents reported, and the categories can overlap.
My Advice to Sellers
Preparation is everything!
Before listing your home, consider addressing maintenance concerns, pricing strategically based on current neighborhood activity, and working with an experienced agent who understands how to evaluate offers beyond just the purchase price.
In Upland and the Inland Emprie, where homes can vary significantly in lot size, upgrades, condition, and location, having the right pricing and marketing strategy is especially important.
The goal isn't simply to attract an offer. It's to attract the right buyer and successfully close escrow.
A Final Thought
Real estate transactions don't always go exactly as planned. Inspections, appraisals, financing, and negotiations can create unexpected challenges. But with the right guidance, many of these obstacles can be managed before they become deal-breakers.
If you've been thinking about selling, downsizing, relocating, or simply wondering what your home might be worth in today's market, I'd love to help you explore your options.
Let's make your next move with confidence, clarity, and care.
Wishing you a wonderful week ahead!
Blessings,
Sonja Coffee
Guiding You Through Life's Moves With Clarity and Care
Sell & Buy • Probate & Trust • Relocation • Downsizing • Senior Transition Specialist
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