3 Huge Mistakes Home Sellers Make in La Puente, CA

Selling a home in La Puente requires careful execution from listing day all the way through the final recording of escrow.

While most sellers focus on pricing and open houses, some of the most costly financial mistakes occur during the final 72 hours before closing when sellers lower their guard.

Avoiding these three critical errors ensures your transaction closes smoothly without escrow delays, buyer credit demands, or legal disputes.

Mistake #1: Removing Contracted Appliances or Fixtures

Disputes over property inclusions cause significant friction during the final walk-through inspection.

Under the standard C.A.R. Residential Purchase Agreement (RPA), any item explicitly checked as included—or legally classified as a fixture (permanently attached)—must remain with the real estate.

• The Problem: Removing a stainless steel refrigerator, mounted washer/dryer, or custom lighting featured in marketing photos and contract terms.

• The Buyer Impact: Buyers can delay signing final loan docs, demand monetary credits at escrow, or require re-installation prior to closing.

• The Solution: Replace sentimental items or heirloom fixtures before photographing the home or specifically list exclusions in written MLS disclosures.

Mistake #2: Leaving the Property in Unclean Condition

The final walk-through (C.A.R. Form VP) gives buyers the contractual right to confirm the property is in substantially the same condition as when their purchase offer was accepted.

Mistake #3: Disconnecting Utilities Before Close of Escrow

Shutting off gas, electric, or water services early to save on utility bills creates severe escrow bottlenecks.

• Contract Obligation: California purchase agreements require sellers to maintain active utility services through the close of escrow.

• Walk-Through Requirement: Buyers must verify that HVAC systems, plumbing fixtures, electrical outlets, and water heaters are fully operational during the final walk-through inspection.

• The Delay: Deactivated utilities force buyers to reschedule inspections, delaying closing recordings and potentially incurring utility re-connection fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a buyer delay closing if a La Puente home fails final walk-through?

Yes. If contractual items are missing, utilities are turned off, or damage occurred during seller move-out, the buyer can request escrow credits or withhold final walk-through sign-off until remedies are completed.

When should a seller shut off utilities when selling a home in Los Angeles County?

Keep all utilities (water, gas, electricity, trash) active until the deed is officially recorded with the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder and escrow confirms final recording.

What does “broom-clean condition” mean in California real estate?

“Broom-clean” requires removing all personal trash, sweeping hard surfaces, vacuuming carpets, and clearing out all closets, attics, sheds, and garages of seller debris.

Planning to Sell Your La Puente Home?

Avoid closing-table surprises and maximize your net proceeds with step-by-step guidance.

Edgar Cuevas
Broker & Owner | Xprt Real Estate
Specializing in La Puente, Whittier, Hacienda Heights, West Covina, Valinda, Pico Rivera & Santa Fe Springs

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