If you're getting ready to sell your home in La Conner and know (or suspect) there’s unpermitted work on the property, you might be wondering how it will affect the sale. Whether it's a basement conversion, deck addition, or remodel done without proper approval, unpermitted work doesn't have to stop your sale—but it does require a smart, transparent approach.

At Team Kelli Lang, we’ve helped many homeowners sell properties with unpermitted improvements. With local knowledge, strategic planning, and full transparency, we help you protect your sale and your bottom line—while reducing the stress.

1. What Is Considered Unpermitted Work?

Unpermitted work is any renovation, addition, or structural change that required a building permit—but was completed without one. Common examples in La Conner homes include:

• Converted garages or basements

• Decks, sheds, or additions

• Electrical or plumbing upgrades

• Kitchen or bathroom remodels

• Window or door replacements

💡 Even small updates may require permits, especially if they impact safety, structure, or utilities. If you’re unsure, we’ll help you research it through the county records or building department.

2. Can You Still Sell a Home with Unpermitted Work?

Yes—you can legally sell a home with unpermitted work, but Washington law requires sellers to disclose known issues on the Form 17 Seller Disclosure.

Buyers may:

• Accept the work as-is

• Ask for a price reduction or repair credit

• Request permits to be finalized or the work removed

• Walk away, depending on the severity of the issue

💡 Honesty is the best approach. At Team Kelli Lang, we help you disclose properly and position your home confidently on the market.

3. Should You Fix or Permit the Work Before Selling?

This depends on your timeline, budget, and how serious the issue is.

Option 1: Legalize the Work (Obtain Retroactive Permits)

Pros:

• Makes your home more appealing to traditional buyer

• Reduces risk of buyer objections or financing issues

• Helps justify a higher asking price

Cons:

• Requires inspections and potential corrections

• May involve delays or added expense

Option 2: Sell As-Is

Pros:

• No upfront costs

• Ideal if you’re targeting investors or cash buyers

• Keeps your timeline on track

Cons:

• May lower your sale price

• Limits your buyer pool

💡 Not sure which to choose? We’ll help you weigh the pros and cons based on your home’s value and La Conner’s buyer demand.

4. How Does Unpermitted Work Impact Appraisal or Financing?

If a buyer is using a mortgage, their lender may require that:

• The unpermitted work be removed or permitted

• The value be based only on the permitted square footage

• Repairs or adjustments be made before closing

This can affect:

• Appraised value

• Financing timelines

• Buyer confidence

💡 We work closely with lenders, appraisers, and buyers' agents to navigate these hurdles and keep your deal on track.

5. Marketing a Home with Unpermitted Work in La Conner

We help you highlight your home’s value and character, even if some work wasn’t permitted.

Our approach includes:

✅ Transparent disclosure and documentation

✅ Clear notes in MLS and marketing materials

✅ Guidance on what can (and can’t) be counted as living space

✅ Targeted marketing to buyers who are open to as-is properties or upgrades

💡 We don’t hide anything—but we don’t let it define the home, either.

6. What If the Buyer Wants the Work Permitted?

Some buyers may ask for you to “legalize” the work before closing. We help you navigate that by:

• Consulting with the county permitting offic

• Referring licensed contractors or inspectors

• Estimating time and cost for compliance

• Negotiating credits or escrow holds, if needed

💡 Every situation is different. Our team creates a solution that works for both you and the buyer.

7. Why Sellers in La Conner Trust Team Kelli Lang

Selling a home with unpermitted work requires more than a sign in the yard—it takes experience, knowledge, and the ability to guide buyers through potential concerns with clarity.

Here’s what you get with Team Kelli Lang:

✅ Local La Conner expertise

✅ Transparent, supportive guidance

✅ Connections to local inspectors, contractors, and permitting officials

✅ Smart pricing and marketing strategies

✅ Strong negotiation to protect your equity

We’ve helped homeowners in all kinds of situations—and we know how to turn challenges into opportunities.

8. Ready to Sell in La Conner? We’ve Got You Covered

If your home has unpermitted work and you're ready to sell, we’re here to make it simple and stress-free. With the right strategy, you can still get great results—and feel good about the process.

📞 Call Team Kelli Lang at 360-929-2217
💻 Or email team@kellilang.com to schedule your free consultation

💡 Unpermitted work doesn’t have to stop your sale. With the right team, it’s just another step on the way to sold. Let’s make it happen.