Q&A: Inadequate Crawl Space

Question:
Our house in Eugene has an inadequate crawl space - perhaps 10'' in some places. We had a good vapor barrier put it at great cost, $1200.00, because it was rough. But it is in now -- is this a problem when selling?

Answer:
The truest answer to your question is ~ "it depends"

The condition of the crawlspace and what may be described as "Inadequate Clearance" could stop a sale at two different intervals. The 1st would be at the buyer "Professional Inspection Level" - depending on the advice the inspector relates to the buyer the buyer could find this to be a liability that the buyer finds too great to continue forward.

If you are going to encounter a problem in the sale it is more likely that it would be at the appraisal and financing stage of the process. Certain financing approaches have different requirements than others. VA (Veteran's Administration) financing for instance has traditionally been more concerned with sub area clearance then other types of financing.

We have developed strategies that minimize the possibility of this hiccup occurring which include having the property pre-inspected prior to marketing so that known issues are brought forward before we have a sale in progress. This way we can resolve deficiencies ahead of the stress of a "Mid Sale Moment".

Thanks for your contact through our blog. Please let us know if we can help.

Dave