You are under contract on a home, you have completed your inspection, and you have submitted a list of repair requests to the seller. Then you wait. And wait. And hear nothing.
So what happens if the seller never responds?
If you are buying a home in South Carolina, this situation is more common than you might think, and how you handle it comes down to understanding the due diligence deadline.
Why the Due Diligence Deadline Matters
The due diligence period is the time built into your contract that allows you to complete inspections and negotiate repairs or credits. This period is negotiable and is one of the most important parts of your contract.
Once the due diligence deadline passes, your ability to terminate the contract without significant consequences becomes very limited.
That means you cannot afford to wait too long for a response.
What No Response Typically Means
If you have given the seller reasonable time to respond and they have not, it is generally understood that no response means they are not willing to agree to your requested repairs or credits.
At that point, the decision shifts back to you as the buyer.
Your Options as the Buyer
You typically have two main options before the due diligence deadline:
Proceed with the purchase as is
This means you are accepting the home in its current condition and moving forward without any repairs or concessions from the seller.
Terminate the contract
If the inspection results or lack of response make you uncomfortable, you can choose to terminate the contract. To do this properly, you must deliver both the notice of termination and the termination fee before the due diligence deadline.
Missing this deadline could mean you are obligated to move forward with the purchase.
Why Timing and Strategy Matter
This is where working with an experienced agent becomes critical. Your agent should be tracking deadlines, following up with the listing agent, and helping you decide when to move forward or walk away.
Waiting until the last minute can limit your options and increase your risk.
Final Thoughts
A seller’s lack of response can be frustrating, but it does not leave you without options. The key is understanding your contract, acting within the due diligence period, and making a decision that protects your interests.
If you are buying a home in Greenville, Simpsonville, Five Forks, or anywhere in the Upstate, I would love to help guide you through inspections, negotiations, and contract timelines. I am Monica Barnett, a local real estate agent with Coldwell Banker Caine. Let’s make your home buying experience simple, informed, and stress free.
