How Do I Handle Buyer Financing Issues When Selling My Long Island Home?

How do I handle buyer financing issues when selling my Long Island home?
Financing problems can delay or derail a home sale, especially if a buyer’s loan falls through late in the process. On Long Island, where prices and taxes are high, financing issues are not uncommon. Eric Berman REALTOR explains how sellers can protect themselves and keep deals on track when buyer financing becomes a challenge.

Common Buyer Financing Issues

1. Loan Denial

Buyers may fail to get final approval if their financial situation changes (new debt, job loss, or credit score drop).

2. Appraisal Shortfall

If the home appraises for less than the purchase price, lenders may not approve the full loan amount.

3. Delayed Underwriting

Backlogs or missing documents can stall approval, delaying closing.

4. Debt-to-Income Ratios

Long Island’s higher home prices mean some buyers push the limits of what lenders will allow.

How Sellers Can Protect Themselves

Require Pre-Approval

  • Ask for a strong pre-approval letter, not just pre-qualification.

  • Pre-approval includes credit checks and income verification.

Review Buyer’s Lender

  • Work with buyers using reputable local or national lenders.

  • Experienced lenders know Long Island’s unique taxes and closing costs.

Watch Contingencies

  • Financing contingencies give buyers an “out” if their loan is denied.

  • Consider timelines that limit how long buyers can secure financing.

Keep Backup Offers

  • Having a secondary buyer lined up reduces risk if the first deal falls through.

What to Do If Financing Falls Through

  1. Evaluate Options Quickly: See if the buyer can switch lenders or bring more cash.

  2. Revisit Backup Offers: If available, move forward with the next strongest buyer.

  3. Relist Promptly: With updated marketing to attract new buyers.

How Eric Berman REALTOR Helps

Eric helps sellers minimize financing risks by:

  • Verifying buyers’ pre-approvals before accepting offers

  • Communicating with lenders to monitor progress

  • Negotiating appraisal gap coverage in contracts

  • Keeping backup strategies ready if financing fails

Final Thoughts

Buyer financing issues can be frustrating, but they don’t have to end your home sale. With preparation, you can reduce risks and keep the process moving.

Concerned about buyer financing on your sale?

Contact Eric Berman REALTOR today for strategies to protect your deal and ensure a smoother transaction.

Meta Description:
Worried about buyer financing issues when selling a Long Island home? Eric Berman REALTOR shares tips to protect your deal and keep closings on track.