Can a Code Violation Keep Me From Selling My Washington House?
The answer to that question is both yes and no. It depends on how you sell your house and under what conditions. If you try to sell your house the traditional way, you will likely have to address the code violation - and all that involves - before you sell the house.
However, if you sell your house as-is for cash, then you can sell your house fast in Tacoma, Washington, without correcting the code violations. The buyer agrees to buy the house as-is regardless of its current condition or the code violations. Once the buyer purchases the house, they assume responsibility for all home upgrades that satisfy the current building codes.
What Is a Building Code Violation?
According to Washington Law, a code violation is a violation that exists within a facility, structure, or building that threatens the safety of its occupants and may result in injury or fatality. The violation in question refers to any part of the building that does not meet safety standards or codes.
Although residential properties are rarely subject to a safety inspection while you own the property, an inspector may cite a violation while you are trying to sell your house. As a result, the inspector will require you to fix the violation to satisfy the current safety standards before you are allowed to sell your house.
Common Residential Code Violations in Washington
In most cases, homeowners are unaware of the code violations in their houses. It is especially true if the code violation exists in a newer home. So, it’s a good idea to be aware of violations when they occur. Some of the most common home code violations include
- Home improvements without permits
- Low ceilings in stairwells
- Improper window installation or framework
- Missing or damaged smoke detectors/fire alarms
- Wrong windows in basement (no egress windows)
- Poor wiring in electric panel boxes
- No GFCI outlet upgrades
- An inadequate bathroom or kitchen ventilation
- Missing handrails in indoor or outdoor stairs
In case you were wondering, some of the most expensive code violations include structural and systemic repairs (roofs, framework, plumbing, electrical, and HVAC), as well foundational repairs. These types of projects can cost you thousands of dollars, which can eat into your profits when you go to sell your house in Washington.
How Can I Sell My House After a Code Violation?
If you have all the time and resources to sell your house after a code violation, then making the necessary repairs shouldn’t be a problem. However, if you need to sell your house fast in Washington or you don’t have the time and money necessary to make repairs, there is still a way to sell your house.
You can sell your house as-is to a company that buys houses in Washington. A house-buying company can assess the value of your house - even with the code violations - and make a cash offer. The buyer agrees to pay cash for the house without requiring you to address the code violations. Once you sell the house, the buyer assumes responsibility for the code violations and makes the necessary repairs or upgrades.
Why Choose a Cash Sale Over a Traditional Sale
First, let’s get the obvious out of the way. A traditional sale is next to impossible if you do not correct the code violations in your house. An inspector may not allow you to proceed with a sale. Also, a buyer probably would not consider buying your house until you make the investment to address the code violations.
Beyond your ability to sell your house as-is, there are other benefits of selling your Washington house as-for cash.
- Sell your house fast - typically in seven to 21 days.
- Work with a single pre-qualified, professional buyer.
- Sell your house regardless of your situation.
- Pay zero for repairs, closing costs, or realtor commissions.
If you need to sell your house fast or get out of your remortgage, a code violation does not have to keep you from selling your house. A home buyer can look at the property, make a cash offer, and close the sale within a seven to 21-day period.
Sell Your House As-Is for Cash to Tacoma Cash Offer
If you need to sell your house fast in Tacoma, Washington, contact Tacoma Cash Offer. We buy houses as-is in Washington. Call (253) 300-2897 to get a fast cash offer.