Why Deals Fall Apart After Going Under Contract

“Mike, Why do deals fall apart after the seller accepts an offer?

Great question—and it happens more often than most people think.

Just because the property’s under contract doesn’t mean it’s a done deal.

From my seat in Pembroke Pines real estate, the three biggest deal killers are always the same: inspection freak-outs, low appraisals, and financing issues.

It’s Not the Finish Line - It’s the Starting Line.

Here’s the thing—getting under contract is just one milestone in the process.

There’s still a long road between offer acceptance and closing day.

Lenders, inspectors, appraisers, and emotions all get involved.

If even one piece goes sideways, the whole deal can fall apart.

These are the 3 biggest deal killers:

1. Inspection Panic

   • The inspection report drops, and suddenly the buyer’s asking for everything from a new roof to $50 in GFCI outlet upgrades.

   • Some walk at the first sign of issues; others use it to renegotiate.

   • Sellers need to be ready—emotionally and strategically—to respond without blowing up the deal.

2. The Appraisal Comes In Low

   • If the home appraises for less than the contract price, lenders won’t finance the full amount.

   • That means the buyer has to bring cash to the table—or the seller has to cut the price.

   • If neither budges, the deal dies.

   • This happens a lot, especially when pricing isn’t based on solid local comps.

3. Financing Falls Through

   • That pre-approval letter? It’s not a guarantee.

   • Buyers lose jobs, open new credit lines, or hit snags in underwriting all the time.

   • If the bank says no, the deal is off.

   • This is why solid buyer vetting matters—especially in today’s lending environment.

Bottom line: These aren’t rare scenarios—they’re the norm. If you’re not prepared for them, you’re rolling the dice every time you accept an offer.

What I’d Tell a Friend

If you’re buying or selling in Pembroke Pines, don’t assume the hard part is over once the offer’s accepted.

Deals fall apart when people get surprised.

The more you know what’s coming, the more likely you’ll make it to closing day with your sanity (and equity) intact.

💡 Pro Tip

Getting under contract is just the handshake—the real negotiation happens after.

Expect bumps, stay flexible, and have a calm, experienced pro guiding both sides.

Ready to Avoid Deal Drama?

Let’s talk strategy. Whether you’re buying or selling, a 15-minute game plan call can save you weeks of stress and thousands at the closing table.

Let’s schedule a Strategy Session.