Can you sell a Snohomish or King County home that has structural problems?
Yes, you can sell a home with structural problems, but it requires clear documentation, proper disclosure, strategic pricing, and the right buyer pool. Structural issues are serious and can impact financing, inspections, and insurance eligibility. REALTOR® Marie‑Noelle Metseye helps homeowners navigate these challenges so they can sell safely, legally, and for the strongest possible value.
What Counts as Structural Problems?
Structural issues affect the stability, safety, or load‑bearing integrity of the home. These problems are typically highlighted in inspections or engineering reports.
Common examples include:
• Foundation cracks or settlement
• Rotting support beams or joists
• Failing retaining walls
• Sagging floors or rooflines
• Termite or pest‑related structural damage
• Soil erosion or drainage‑related instability
Step 1: Get a Structural Engineering Report
If structural issues are suspected, a licensed structural engineer should evaluate the home. Their report provides clarity on the severity, safety concerns, and recommended repairs.
This report helps:
• Document known issues
• Prevent buyer surprises
• Guide repair vs. as‑is decisions
• Establish transparency for buyers and lenders
Step 2: Decide Whether to Repair or Sell As‑Is
Structural repairs can be expensive, but they may significantly increase the home’s value. However, many sellers choose to sell as‑is to avoid major construction timelines.
Marie‑Noelle helps evaluate:
• Estimated repair costs
• After‑repair value
• As‑is investor value
• Buyer appetite in the local market
Step 3: Understand Financing Challenges
Homes with structural issues often cannot qualify for traditional financing until repairs are completed. This is why cash offers or renovation‑loan buyers (like FHA 203(k) or HomeStyle loans) are typically the best match.
Financing limitations may include:
• Lenders requiring engineering clearance
• Appraisers flagging structural red flags
• Higher insurance requirements
Step 4: Make All Legally Required Disclosures
Washington State requires sellers to disclose known structural defects on the Form 17 Seller Disclosure Statement. Failure to disclose can lead to major liability, even years after the sale.
Marie‑Noelle helps ensure every known issue is properly documented and shared with buyers to protect you legally.
Step 5: Price the Home Based on Condition
Pricing is critical. Structural concerns reduce market value, but the home can still sell quickly.
Marie‑Noelle analyzes comparable sales, investor demand, and cost‑to‑repair estimates to determine the best pricing strategy.
Step 6: Market the Home Transparently and Strategically
Honest marketing builds buyer trust. Professional photos, clear descriptions, and upfront documentation reduce buyer hesitations and attract serious offers.
Marie‑Noelle’s marketing approach includes:
• Targeting cash buyers and investors
• Highlighting location, lot value, and potential
• Providing engineering reports upfront
• Ensuring buyers understand financing limitations
Local Market Insight
Structural problems are more common in older homes, hillside properties, and homes with drainage issues, particularly in Everett, Shoreline, Seattle, Snohomish, and Lake Stevens.
Because demand remains strong in both counties, even structurally compromised homes can sell quickly to investors, builders, or buyers using renovation loans.
Conclusion: You Can Still Sell a Home With Structural Issues
Structural problems don’t prevent a sale, they simply require the right approach. With proper inspections, disclosures, pricing, and a strong marketing plan, you can sell successfully and protect your legal and financial interests.
If you’re selling a Snohomish or King County home with structural concerns, contact REALTOR® Marie‑Noelle Metseye for expert guidance and a step‑by‑step plan.
