Yes, you can sell a house with open permits — but it’s rarely simple. Open permits typically mean unfinished or unapproved work was started on the home. Buyers and lenders may see this as a red flag, which could delay or derail the closing process entirely.
Before listing your property, it’s important to understand how open permits impact your sale and what you can do to resolve them.
How to Find Open Permits on a House
To find out if your house has any open permits:
- Contact your local building department
- Search online through the city or county’s permit portal (if available)
- Request a permit history report
- Ask your real estate agent or title company for help
This will show you if any permits are still active, expired, or incomplete.
How Much Does It Cost to Close an Open Permit?
Closing an open permit can vary in cost depending on:
- Type of work involved (electrical, plumbing, structural, etc.)
- Whether inspections or updates are needed
- Fines or fees issued by the city
On average, you could spend anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars — especially if unpermitted work must be redone to meet code.
Options for Handling Open Permits Before Selling
You’ve got a few routes you can take:
- Fix and close the permit before listing
- Disclose the permit to potential buyers and sell “as-is”
- Negotiate repairs or permit closure as part of the sale
- Sell to an investor who buys homes in any condition
If time or budget is tight, the investor route is often the easiest way to avoid delays.
How Open Permits Affect Marketability and Property Value
Open permits can lower buyer confidence and reduce offers. They may signal poor workmanship, unfinished renovations, or legal issues — all of which can scare off traditional buyers.
In some cases, lenders won’t approve financing until the permit is closed. That’s where Berman Capital come in, offering a hassle-free alternative.
The Closing Process: What to Expect with Open Permits
Expect delays, added paperwork, and potential negotiations. If the buyer requests that you resolve the permits before closing, it may prolong the timeline by weeks — or cause them to back out altogether.
Need a Faster, Easier Way to Sell?
If you’re dealing with open permits and want a quick, stress-free sale, Berman Capital can help. We buy properties in Denton County in ANY CONDITION, including homes with open or expired permits.
Contact Berman Capital today to get a cash offer with no fees, no commissions, and no obligation. It’s a smart, risk-free way to move forward — even when your property isn’t perfect.