Selling a House with Structural Issues

Start with the evidence, not a discount

A crack is an observation, not a diagnosis. Record what you know and what remains uncertain. Ask a suitably qualified surveyor or structural engineer which investigation is appropriate; do not describe movement as historic or resolved unless the evidence supports that description.

• Existing survey or engineer’s report, including the date and limitations.
• Monitoring results and the dates of any observed changes.
• Repair invoices, drawings, completion certificates and guarantees you already hold.
• Relevant insurer correspondence and details of any open claim.

Choose between investigation, repair and an as-is sale

You do not need to make every decision at once. First establish whether further investigation would make the choices clearer. A defined repair scope can be easier to compare than a buyer’s allowance for an unknown defect. Obtain estimates before deciding to undertake non-urgent work.

• Investigate first when the cause or extent remains unclear.
• Consider repair before marketing when the cost, funding and likely benefit are understood.
• Compare an as-is proposal when you cannot undertake the work or prefer to transfer that responsibility.
• Ask an auctioneer about the appropriate sale method, legal pack, fees and conditions before choosing an auction.

Ask what sits behind the offer

Request a written explanation of the work and uncertainty allowed for. A buyer may also budget for finance, professional fees and resale risk. Two headline offers are not directly comparable if one assumes a satisfactory survey and the other has already assessed the defect.

• Who is buying and how will the purchase be funded?
• Which inspections remain, and when will they happen?
• What findings could change the price?
• Is the proposed date dependent on lending, another sale or unresolved legal work?

Compare the amount you would keep

Use a simple comparison: proposed sale price minus mortgage redemption, sale costs and any work you would fund. For a repair-first option, also allow for holding costs and a contingency. A higher anticipated resale price does not automatically leave you better off. Ask your solicitor or adviser about any shortfall or charges before relying on a figure.

Give buyers accurate information

Share the actual reports through the agreed secure process rather than summarising an uncertain finding as “no problem”. Tell your solicitor about investigations, repairs and any insurance claim. This guide cannot establish whether a building is safe or a defect has been resolved.

Discuss the property before committing

Start with the postcode, a short description and your preferred contact method. Lucennio Property Limited can assess whether an investor introduction may fit. Sellers pay no fee to us; separate legal and other third-party costs may still apply. Investor availability, price and timing must be checked for the individual property.