Due diligence in real estate is the period of time after a contract is signed when the buyer investigates the property before fully committing to the purchase. During this time, the buyer can inspect the home, research the title, confirm financing, and ultimately decide whether to move forward or back out.
In South Carolina, this period is typically negotiated in the contract, and the buyer can walk away for any reason within the agreed timeframe — often without losing their earnest money.
For sellers around Lake Marion, understanding due diligence is essential. It’s not just a formality; it’s a window where deals can fall apart. That’s why Carolina Properties at Lake Marion works with sellers to get ahead of any issues buyers may uncover.
What Happens During the Due Diligence Period?
Buyers use this time to investigate every aspect of the home and transaction. Common activities during due diligence include:
- Home inspections (roof, foundation, HVAC, plumbing, electrical)
- Termite and pest inspections
- Well and septic system evaluations
- Mold, radon, or asbestos testing
- Survey and boundary review
- Title search and lien checks
- HOA document review
- Neighborhood research and zoning verification
This is also when buyers may:
- Negotiate repairs or price reductions
- Secure financing or finalize their loan approval
- Back out of the deal without penalty (within the agreed window)
Lakefront properties especially need thorough due diligence because of unique factors like:
- Dock permits
- Flood zones
- Shared easements
- Shoreline erosion
How Due Diligence Affects Sellers
From a seller’s perspective, the due diligence period is when deals are at the greatest risk.
Here’s why:
- Buyers can walk away for any reason if they’re still within the due diligence window
- Inspection findings may lead to requests for costly repairs or seller credits
- Delays can occur if buyers uncover questions that take time to resolve
Example: A seller had their contract fall through when the buyer’s inspector flagged unsupported decking over the water. The buyer walked away just days before the due diligence period ended.
That’s why Carolina Properties at Lake Marion recommends taking a proactive approach. Sellers who address issues early (or disclose them clearly) are much more likely to get to the closing table.
How to Prepare for the Buyer’s Due Diligence Period
Want to keep your Lake Marion home sale on track? Here’s how to prepare before due diligence even begins:
- Get a Pre-Listing Inspection
- Fix small issues ahead of time to avoid red flags
- Organize All Property Documents
- Surveys, warranties, past repair invoices, permits, and HOA rules
- Disclose Known Issues Upfront
- Avoid accusations of hiding problems
- Be Ready for Negotiations
- Decide in advance what repairs or credits you’re willing to offer
- Partner with a Local Expert
- The team at Carolina Properties will guide you every step of the way and help you stay calm and professional if surprises pop up
Being proactive reduces surprises and builds buyer confidence — which can mean faster closings and stronger offers.
Does Due Diligence Really Make or Break a Deal?
Yes — due diligence is one of the most common stages where real estate deals fall apart. But it can also be where serious buyers get peace of mind and feel confident moving forward.
Here’s what typically happens:
- Well-maintained homes pass with few issues
- Transparent sellers avoid lawsuits and panic negotiations
- Organized listings move through due diligence faster
If you want to reduce the chance of delays, fallout, or renegotiation, work with an agent who knows how to prepare.
Carolina Properties specializes in Lake Marion homes and understands the local due diligence expectations. They know what buyers are looking for — and how to get you ahead of their questions.
FAQ: Due Diligence in Real Estate
Q: How long is the due diligence period in South Carolina?
It varies, but 10-15 business days is common. The exact timeline is negotiated in the contract.
Q: Can a buyer walk away for any reason during due diligence?
Yes. That’s the point of the period. After it ends, the rules for canceling change.
Q: Can the seller cancel during due diligence?
Not typically. Only the buyer has that option during this time.
Q: Do buyers get their earnest money back if they back out?
Yes, if they cancel during the agreed due diligence window.
Q: Can sellers prepare for due diligence ahead of time?
Absolutely. A pre-inspection and organized disclosures can help your home pass with flying colors.
Need Help Navigating Due Diligence? Carolina Properties Has Your Back
Don’t let your sale fall apart during the most critical phase. The experts at Carolina Properties at Lake Marion know what it takes to get through due diligence smoothly.
From pre-listing inspections to expert guidance on what to disclose and when, we help:
- Identify and fix deal-breaking issues before listing
- Strategically present your property for buyer confidence
- Negotiate fairly without compromising your bottom line
Contact Carolina Properties Today to take control of your real estate transaction.