Getting an accepted offer on your home feels like victory but the sale isn’t finished until the deal closes. Many sellers in Westchester County have experienced accepted offers that fall through due to overlooked details, overlooked contingencies, or unprepared steps in the process. To make sure your home sale makes it across the finish line, here’s what you need to know.
1. Prioritize Buyer Financing & Appraisal
Even after an offer is accepted, if the buyer’s financing falls through or the appraised value is lower than expected, the deal can collapse. Westchester sellers should:
- Confirm the buyer is pre-approved, not just pre-qualified.
- Be prepared for the appraisal process, especially if you’ve priced your home aggressively. Having recent comparable sales in your neighborhood such as those in Scarsdale, NY or Larchmont, NY, can help support value.
- Be ready to act quickly if the appraisal comes in low (e.g., negotiating with the buyer or offering credit).
2. Stay Ahead of Inspection & Repair Negotiations
After inspection, buyers often request repairs or credits. In Westchester’s competitive market, repairs can stall or derail the transaction. Protect your timeline by:
- Completing key maintenance items before listing (roof, HVAC, windows) so they’re less likely to show up as “unknowns.”
- Being responsive to buyer repair requests offer solutions or concessions early rather than waiting for last minute.
- Working with your agent to prioritize requests that protect value while keeping the deal on track.
3. Coordinate Paperwork, Title & Closing Logistics
Closing a home sale involves a number of legal, financial, and administrative steps. Any gap or oversight even in trusted neighborhoods like Rye, NY or Tarrytown, NY can slow or stop your sale. To safeguard your closing:
- Ensure all required disclosures are completed and submitted accurately.
- Know the timeline for obtaining the title work, address any liens, and be ready with transfer documentation.
- Maintain clear communication with your agent, attorney, and title company so everyone aligns on dates and responsibilities.
4. Maintain Home Readiness Until Closing
Once your home is “under contract,” many sellers ease off prepping but showing condition still matters until closing day. Westchester sellers can keep momentum by:
- Keeping the home clean and accessible for possible last-minute buyer showings.
- Addressing any agreed-upon repairs swiftly and documenting completion.
- Avoiding major changes or new issues that could raise buyer concerns.
5. Work With a Local Agent Who Can Anticipate & Manage Challenges
Westchester has its own market nuances, from commuter critiques to school-district expectations. When your agent knows the local terrain:
- They can recommend listing terms that reduce risk (e.g., shorter financing contingencies).
- They can anticipate common issues in specific towns, like co-op approval in Hastings‑on‑Hudson, NY, and advise proactively.
- They keep all parties aligned on deadlines, ensuring the deal doesn’t get held up in the final stretch.
Final Takeaway
Closing a home sale in Westchester isn’t guaranteed, it takes strategic preparation and expert execution. By prioritizing buyer financing, staying ahead of inspections, managing logistics, and keeping your home ready, you give yourself the best chance to cross the finish line smoothly and successfully.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or real estate advice. Always consult with a licensed real estate professional before making decisions about your property.
