Yes, you can sell a home with code violations, but it requires careful planning, transparency, and expert guidance. REALTOR® Marie-Noelle Metseye helps homeowners in Snohomish and King County sell properties with unpermitted work, deferred maintenance, or safety concerns. With the right strategy, you can protect yourself legally, attract serious buyers, and sell confidently even if your home isn’t perfect.

Code violations can range from minor issues to major safety or structural concerns. Some of the most common violations in Snohomish and King County include:

• Unpermitted additions, decks, or basement conversions

• Outdated or unsafe electrical systems

• Plumbing leaks or failing septic systems

• Missing smoke or carbon monoxide detectors

• Rotted decks, missing handrails, or roof leaks

Many of these issues don’t prevent a sale, they just require proper disclosure and realistic pricing.

The first step is to understand exactly what violations exist. You can order a pre-inspection or contact your city or county code enforcement office for clarification. Washington law requires sellers to disclose known defects or violations using the Form 17 Seller Disclosure Statement.

Marie-Noelle helps sellers review reports, organize documentation, and communicate the facts clearly to potential buyers. This transparency builds trust and reduces the risk of post-closing disputes.

Once you know the issues, you’ll need to decide whether to repair them or sell the home as-is. Repairs can boost value but may take time and money. Selling as-is attracts buyers willing to take on improvements themselves.

Marie-Noelle provides a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) showing both ‘repaired value’ and ‘as-is value,’ helping you decide what makes the most sense for your situation.

Pricing is key when selling a home with code violations. Homes in areas like Everett, Lynnwood, or Renton with structural or electrical issues may still sell quickly if priced 5–10% below comparable move-in-ready homes.

Marie-Noelle uses data-driven pricing strategies to attract serious buyers while protecting your bottom line.

An ‘as-is’ sale doesn’t mean your home can’t shine. Marie-Noelle’s professional marketing approach includes high-quality photography, detailed descriptions, and investor-targeted outreach to maximize visibility.

She promotes listings through MLS, investor networks, and social media, emphasizing opportunity and potential value rather than just condition.

Not every buyer will be a good fit for a home with code violations. The best candidates often include:

• Investors: looking for renovation projects or income properties

• Flippers: aiming to improve and resell the home quickly

• Owner-occupants: who may use renovation loans like FHA 203(k) or Fannie Mae HomeStyle to finance repairs

Marie-Noelle screens buyers carefully, ensuring they’re financially qualified and fully aware of the home’s condition before making an offer.

Full disclosure is critical when selling a home with code violations. Buyers must understand what they’re purchasing, and all known issues should be outlined in the Seller Disclosure Form. Marie-Noelle ensures all communication with inspectors, appraisers, and escrow is handled properly to prevent delays or misunderstandings.

In 2025, both Snohomish and King County continue to see demand for homes, including those needing updates. Areas like Bothell, Shoreline, and Everett are popular among investors and DIY buyers looking for value opportunities. This means sellers can still achieve excellent results even when their property isn’t in perfect condition.

Selling a home with code violations can feel overwhelming, but with the right REALTOR®, it doesn’t have to be. Marie-Noelle Metseye specializes in helping homeowners overcome challenges like unpermitted work or deferred maintenance to achieve successful, compliant sales.

If you’re ready to discuss your options, contact Marie-Noelle today for a confidential consultation on how to sell your home in Snohomish or King County, even with code violations.