Don’t Let These Fall Mistakes Derail Your Deal
Fall real estate transactions come with unique pitfalls that can derail deals if not properly anticipated. One of the biggest mistakes is underestimating holiday-related delays—buyers and sellers often fail to account for shortened business weeks around Thanksgiving, leading to rushed timelines and missed deadlines. Although some decorations can make a house feel like a home, many sellers over-decorate their homes with personal holiday themes, which can distract buyers or make spaces feel cluttered. Buyers frequently assume they have more negotiating power due to lower seasonal activity, but this can backfire when motivated sellers simply pull their listings rather than accept lowball offers. Another common oversight is neglecting seasonal maintenance issues like heating systems and roof conditions before listing, which become major sticking points during inspections. Both parties often forget to factor in year-end tax implications when timing closings, potentially missing deductions or facing unexpected consequences. Finally, many postpone their search, thinking spring will offer better options, only to face a more crowded market with higher prices and limited inventory.
- When you need to work on your credit. Maybe your credit score is just starting to recover, but you need more time to pay down debts for a couple of years. With rent-to-own, you could start investing in a home while you bring up your score.
- You’re close, but not quite ready to secure a mortgage. You might have a good job with a significantly bigger salary, but you haven’t been there long enough for a lender to consider it a stable source of income. Or maybe you’re self-employed and you’re still building a reliable track record. Rent-to-own allows time to build personal wealth and financial credibility while working toward your homeownership goals.
- When you know you’re going to buy when the lease expires. If you’re not ready to buy when the lease expires, then you will lose any rent credit, i.e. investment, you’ve put into the home.
