From a Dream Townhome to a Canceled Contract

Even before our first meeting, my client already had a particular townhome in mind. When we finally toured it together, it didn’t disappoint—it was just as charming as expected.

Though it was a townhome, it featured a bedroom and bathroom on the main floor that could serve as a primary suite. The layout was appealing, and the owner had put incredible attention into the details, creating a space that was both unique and stylish.

The only drawback I noticed was the HOA fee: $453 per month—quite high. Because of that, I didn’t actively recommend it at first.

But even after seeing other homes, my client kept saying, “I can’t stop thinking about that one.”

Sometimes, the heart leads better than logic does. So we submitted an offer—slightly below asking—and after some negotiation, the contract was accepted.

The Importance of Inspection

Once your offer is accepted, the very first step should be a home inspection. Through the inspection, you can carefully check the overall condition of the house and prevent potential issues before they happen. Sometimes, even after a thorough inspection, unexpected problems may still arise.

In this case, the home was being resold after 15 years, and more issues were found than we anticipated. While each problem might seem minor on its own, together they can become a significant concern. In particular, the plumbing and HVAC system were flagged for additional evaluation by specialists.

The Tough Decision to Cancel

For my client, this was their very first home purchase in the U.S. They admitted honestly, “I don’t feel confident taking on a home with this many issues.”

Yes, most of the problems could have been fixed, but for a first home, peace of mind often outweighs potential repairs. After careful discussion, we decided to cancel the contract.

Moving Forward

A home should capture your heart—but it should also feel manageable, not overwhelming. This experience became a valuable step toward finding a better fit: a newer home, easier to maintain, and truly comfortable.

In real estate, contract cancellations are not rare. More often than not, they lead to better opportunities—a home that’s not just beautiful, but right.

I’m already looking forward to our next round of showings and to finding the home that feels just right.