Deals Falling Through: Buyer Caution Rises in a Shaky Economy
- Neil Caron
- 9 hours ago
- 2 min read
November 6th, 2025 | Market Insights | Presented by ReadySetLoan™️
More home-purchase deals are collapsing before closing as economic uncertainty grows. Nationwide, roughly 15% of pending home sales were canceled in September, up from 13.6% a year earlier. Buyers are increasingly pulling out due to job worries, tighter budgets, and shifting confidence.
For Connecticut, where affordability is already stretched, this trend highlights the importance of preparation, strategy, and understanding your financial limits before you sign on the dotted line.
Why deals are unraveling
The reasons behind this rise in cancellations paint a clear picture of the challenges facing today’s market:
Job or income insecurity – Some buyers are backing out after sudden job changes or fears about future earnings.
Higher carrying costs – Insurance, property taxes, and maintenance expenses are proving higher than expected, making some purchases unsustainable.
Stubborn sellers – Homeowners locked into historically low mortgage rates are hesitant to sell, often refusing to budge on price.
Inspection issues – Problems uncovered during inspections — especially in older Connecticut homes — are leading to more canceled deals when negotiations break down.
The Connecticut angle
In Connecticut, this growing wave of canceled deals underscores how crucial it is to stay realistic and proactive:
Local costs hit harder. Connecticut’s property taxes and insurance rates mean affordability margins are thinner, especially for first-time buyers.
Stricter lender standards. In a volatile economy, lenders are double-checking documentation and appraisals. Working with experienced professionals helps avoid delays or surprises.
Seller flexibility matters. Sellers who pre-inspect, adjust pricing, or offer credits can reduce the odds of deals falling apart.
Prepared buyers win. Buyers with pre-approvals, flexible timelines, and backup options have a real edge as more cautious competitors drop out.
🐷 RSL Piggy Points
About 15% of home-purchase deals nationwide fell through last month.
Job security, affordability, and inspection issues are major reasons for canceled contracts.
Connecticut’s higher costs amplify financial strain for some buyers.
Sellers who adapt and buyers who prepare will have the best results.
In a shifting market, readiness and realism go hand in hand.
Neil’s Take 🎤
“When buyers get nervous, deals get shaky. In Connecticut, where carrying costs are higher, a single surprise can derail a closing. That’s why the smartest buyers come in fully prepared — pre-approved, budget-aware, and ready to pivot if needed.”— Neil Caron, Area Manager at CMG Mortgage
🐽 Snout-Out: The RSL PerspectiveAt ReadySetLoan™️, we believe preparation beats panic every time. Even in a market where deals are falling through, well-informed Connecticut buyers can turn hesitation into opportunity. By locking rates wisely, budgeting for real costs, and working with trusted professionals, you can stay one step ahead of uncertainty — and cross the finish line with confidence.
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