Can you sell a home in Snohomish County or King County if it has an open permit?
Yes, you can sell a home with an open permit, but it requires careful handling. Open permits can delay closing, impact financing, and raise concerns for buyers. REALTOR® Marie‑Noelle Metseye helps homeowners understand their options, work with local building departments, and choose the best path to a smooth and compliant sale.
What Is an Open Permit?
An open permit is a permit that was pulled for construction or renovation but never finalized with a required inspection. This is very common across Snohomish and King County, particularly in older homes or DIY renovations.
Common examples include:
• A kitchen remodel missing a final inspection
• Electrical or plumbing upgrades never signed off by the city
• Decks, additions, or structural work awaiting approval
• Permits pulled by past owners and forgotten
Step 1: Confirm the Status of the Permit
Your first step is checking the city or county permit portal to confirm whether the permit is open, expired, or requires additional inspections. Marie‑Noelle guides sellers in contacting the permitting office or coordinates with professionals who can assist.
You’ll learn:
• What inspection is missing
• Whether additional work is required
• Whether the permit can be closed or must be renewed
Step 2: Decide Whether to Close the Permit or Sell As‑Is
Depending on the cost, time, and complexity, you may choose to resolve the open permit before listing, or disclose it and sell as‑is.
Your choices include:
• **Completing the final inspection** if the work complies with code
• **Hiring a contractor** to correct issues and finalize the permit
• **Letting the buyer handle it** (common with investor sales)
• **Applying for a re‑inspection** if the permit has expired
Marie‑Noelle helps weigh the pros and cons based on your timeline, budget, and desired sale price.
Step 3: Understand How Open Permits Affect Buyers and Financing
Some lenders will not approve financing on a home with unresolved permits, especially if structural or electrical work is involved.
Buyer impacts may include:
• Delayed closing timelines
• Loan denial for unfinished permitted work
• Required escrow holdbacks until inspection passes
• Increased buyer negotiation for credits or repairs
Cash buyers are often more flexible, making them good candidates when time is tight.
Step 4: Disclose the Open Permit Fully and Transparently
Washington State law requires sellers to disclose known permit issues on the Form 17 Seller Disclosure. Transparency protects you from legal issues and builds trust with buyers.
Documents buyers may request:
• Permit history from the city or county
• Receipts for completed work
• Contractor details
Step 5: Price the Home Based on Permit Status and Market Demand
Open permits may reduce the buyer pool or sale price slightly, but in a high‑demand market like Snohomish and King County, well‑priced homes with open permits still sell quickly.
Marie‑Noelle evaluates:
• Cost to close the permit
• Buyer demand in your neighborhood
• Comparable sales with similar conditions
Step 6: Market the Home Strategically
Homes with open permits attract both traditional buyers and investors. Marie‑Noelle markets the property honestly while positioning its strengths and potential.
Her strategy includes:
• Clear communication about the permit status upfront
• Professional photography and accurate descriptions
• Targeting buyers open to minor administrative tasks
• Highlighting recent updates, layout, location, or land value
Local Market Insight
Open permits are extremely common in older homes across Everett, Lynnwood, Shoreline, Seattle, Bothell, and Mountlake Terrace. Building departments in Snohomish and King County process thousands of expired or open permits each year, buyers and agents are familiar with the process.
Because housing demand remains high, most homes with open permits still sell quickly when handled properly.
Conclusion: Yes, You *Can* Sell a Home With an Open Permit, With the Right Support
An open permit doesn’t stop a sale, it simply requires clarity, strategy, and proper disclosure. With expert guidance from REALTOR® Marie‑Noelle Metseye, you can decide whether to close the permit or sell as‑is and move forward confidently.
If you’re preparing to sell a Snohomish or King County home with an open permit, contact Marie‑Noelle for expert guidance and a personalized action plan.
