Selling a home with unpermitted work, especially an inherited property, can feel overwhelming. Unpermitted work—whether it’s a remodel, addition, or improvement—can lead to fines, delays, and complications during the selling process. Understanding how to address these issues can save you time and money. Alternatively, selling the property as-is might be the stress-free solution you need. In this guide, we’ll outline the steps to address unpermitted work and how We Buy Houses in Atlanta GA can help you sell your property quickly and efficiently.
What is Unpermitted Work?
Unpermitted work refers to any improvements made to a property without obtaining the required permits from local authorities. Common examples include:
- Room additions
- Plumbing or electrical upgrades
- Structural changes
- Major renovations
This type of work can create challenges when selling, including legal issues, fines, and potential buyer concerns. For inherited houses, unpermitted work can complicate an already emotional and stressful process.
Why Address Unpermitted Work Before Selling?
Unpermitted work often raises red flags for potential buyers. Lenders may refuse to finance a property, or buyers might negotiate a lower price to account for the risk of future fines or repairs. Addressing these issues upfront ensures a smoother selling process and avoids costly legal complications.
Steps to Legalize Unpermitted Work
If you’re ready to address unpermitted work before selling, here are the essential steps:
- Assess the Work
Hire a professional inspector to evaluate your property and identify code violations. - Gather Documentation
Collect any available records or receipts related to the unpermitted work. - Apply for Permits
Check with your local building department about applying for “as-built” permits to retroactively approve the work. - Schedule Inspections
Arrange for inspections to ensure the work complies with building codes. - Pay Applicable Fees
Be prepared to pay fines, permit application fees, and inspection costs. - Obtain Final Approval
Once inspections are passed and necessary corrections are made, the work will be legalized.
Associated Costs of Legalizing Unpermitted Work
Legalizing unpermitted work can involve the following expenses:
- Permit Fees: $50–$2,000 depending on the scope of the work
- Inspection Fees: $100–$500 per inspection
- Correction Costs: Variable based on deficiencies
- Penalties/Fines: Up to $5,000 or more for significant violations
These costs can add up quickly, making it important to evaluate whether legalizing the work is the best option for your situation.
Simplified Solution: Selling As-Is
If navigating the process of legalizing unpermitted work feels daunting, selling your property as-is can be a practical alternative. At We Buy Houses in Atlanta GA, we specialize in purchasing homes with unpermitted work, allowing you to skip the hassle entirely.
Here’s how we can help:
- Fast Offers: We provide competitive cash offers within days.
- No Repairs Needed: We buy homes in any condition, including those with unpermitted work.
- Stress-Free Process: Our streamlined approach ensures a smooth and worry-free transaction.
Selling as-is saves you time, effort, and money, letting you move forward with peace of mind.
Selling a home with unpermitted work, particularly an inherited house, can feel like a complex challenge. However, addressing these issues can open the door to a successful sale. By following the outlined steps—assessing the work, obtaining permits, and addressing deficiencies—you can ensure your property complies with local regulations.
Still, the costs and effort involved may not be suitable for everyone. If you’re seeking a quicker, more straightforward option, selling as-is could be the solution. At We Buy Houses in Atlanta GA, we specialize in helping homeowners sell their properties regardless of condition. Our fast, fair cash offers and stress-free process make it easy to move forward without delays.
Take the first step today. Call (470) 369-5727 or fill out our online contact form for a free consultation. Whether you choose to address unpermitted work or sell as-is, we’re here to help you navigate the process with confidence and ease.
Unpermitted work doesn’t have to prevent you from selling your home. While legalizing the work can provide a traditional path to sale, selling as-is offers a quicker and easier alternative. At We Buy Houses in Atlanta GA, we make the process seamless by purchasing homes in any condition. Call (470) 369-5727 or complete our contact form for a free consultation. Let’s help you sell your home fast and stress-free!
