Selling a home is a complex process where unseen obstacles can emerge at the last minute, turning a promising deal into a disappointing collapse. Ottawa real estate professional Taylor Bennett from the Bennett Property Shop has identified four specific, often overlooked factors that can silently kill a transaction. Understanding these pitfalls is crucial for any seller looking to navigate the market successfully.
The Hidden Hazards in Home Selling
According to Bennett, these deal-killers are not always the obvious issues like a low offer or a cracked foundation. They are subtler, sometimes emerging late in the process after both parties believe an agreement is secure. Failing to address these areas proactively can lead to delayed closings, renegotiated prices, or complete deal termination, causing significant stress and financial uncertainty for the seller.
The advice, detailed in a video segment, was published on January 18, 2026. It serves as a timely guide for homeowners in the Ottawa region and across Canada who are considering entering the real estate market. Bennett's insights are drawn from direct experience in the field, highlighting common but preventable mistakes.
Key Areas Sellers Must Scrutinize
While the full video breakdown from Bennett Property Shop goes into detail, the core four deal-killers typically revolve around several critical themes. One major category is unexpected deficiencies uncovered during the home inspection phase. These are not always major structural problems but can include outdated electrical systems, insufficient insulation, or malfunctioning appliances that the seller assumed were in working order.
Another frequent issue is related to title and property line disputes. An old survey, an undocumented easement, or a neighbour's fence built slightly on the property can create legal headaches that scare off buyers or their lenders. Furthermore, failing to properly disclose known issues with the property, whether about past water damage, renovations done without permits, or neighbourhood nuisances, can lead to lawsuits and collapsed deals after the fact.
Proactive Steps for a Smooth Sale
The overarching message from Bennett's analysis is the importance of preparation. Sellers are advised to conduct a pre-listing inspection to uncover any potential problems themselves before a buyer's inspector finds them. This allows the homeowner to either fix the issues or price and market the home accordingly with full transparency.
Additionally, reviewing all property documentation and possibly obtaining a new survey can preempt title-related surprises. Full and honest disclosure from the outset is not just ethical; it is a strategic move to build trust and ensure the deal closes smoothly. By anticipating these silent deal-killers, sellers in Ottawa and beyond can position themselves for a faster, more secure, and more profitable sale, avoiding the heartache of a last-minute collapse.
In a dynamic housing market, being an informed seller is the best defense against unforeseen complications. Taylor Bennett's breakdown provides a essential checklist for anyone looking to transition out of their current home without falling victim to these common yet destructive pitfalls.
