Low inventory continues to shape buyer behavior across Chicagoland and the North Shore. In today’s competitive environment, motivated buyers move quickly and often aggressively to secure a home. While strong offers are always welcome, we still see contracts occasionally fall apart weeks later when expectations shift or due diligence uncovers concerns.

For sellers, a canceled contract is more than disappointing. It can impact momentum, perception, and ultimately value. The good news is that there are smart, proactive steps you can take to protect your sale and keep your transaction on track.

Below are several strategies we recommend to help minimize the risk of a deal falling through.

Start With a Pre Inspection

Today’s buyers expect transparency from the very beginning.

A seller initiated pre inspection allows you to identify potential issues before your home ever hits the market. This gives you the opportunity to address concerns in advance or disclose them clearly, creating confidence from day one.

While buyers will still conduct their own inspections, a well documented pre inspection reduces surprises and helps prevent small findings from becoming reasons for renegotiation or cancellation later in the process.

Strengthen the Earnest Money Structure

In a strong seller position, earnest money can play an important role in protecting your contract.

Requiring a portion of the earnest money to become non refundable after the inspection period demonstrates buyer commitment and discourages casual offers. Serious buyers understand that when they move forward, they are doing so with intention.

This strategy is particularly effective for homes that are well priced, beautifully presented, and located in high demand areas.

Work With Buyers Who Are Ready to Act

For buyers, due diligence is essential. Inspections matter and major issues deserve thoughtful consideration. That said, making an offer should always reflect a genuine intent to move forward if the home meets expectations.

The strongest transactions come from clear communication, realistic expectations, and guidance from experienced professionals on both sides of the table.

When buyers and sellers approach the process with transparency and good faith, the result is not only a smoother transaction but a stronger outcome for everyone involved.

The Bottom Line

In today’s market, preparation is power.

Sellers who take a proactive approach to inspections, contract structure, and buyer vetting significantly reduce the risk of canceled contracts and protect the momentum of their sale.

At the Connie Dornan Group, our focus is always on protecting your interests, preserving value, and guiding every transaction with care, strategy, and professionalism.

Because a successful sale is not just about accepting the best offer. It is about reaching the closing table with confidence.