If you’re planning to sell a home in Orlando that has open code violations — whether minor issues or major ones — you’re likely wondering whether it’s worth fixing them before listing or if you can sell the house as-is.
The answer depends on your timeline, finances, and goals.
As a local real estate agent and investor, I help homeowners make smart, stress-free decisions — including how to handle code violations before a sale. In many cases, you can skip the costly repairs and still close quickly.
Here’s what you need to know.
What Are Code Violations in Orlando?
A code violation is any part of your property that doesn’t meet local building, zoning, or safety standards. These may include:
- Unpermitted additions or garage conversions
- Improper electrical or plumbing work
- Roof damage, broken windows, or unsafe structures
- Trash accumulation or overgrown landscaping
- Inoperable vehicles on the property
- Rental or landlord violations
The City of Orlando and Orange County have active code enforcement divisions — and once a violation is recorded, it can trigger fines, legal action, or even liens if left unresolved.
Do I Have to Fix Code Violations Before Selling?
No — in Florida, you can legally sell a house with code violations, as long as the buyer agrees to take on the responsibility.
However, here’s the tradeoff:
- Traditional buyers using bank financing usually cannot close on a home with open violations.
- Appraisers and lenders require a property to meet minimum safety standards.
- Even if you find a buyer, it’s likely they will ask for repairs or price reductions during inspection.
If your buyer is a cash buyer or an investor (like my team), they can often buy the house as-is — violations and all.
When It Makes Sense to Fix the Violations Before Selling
You might consider repairing the violations if:
- The violations are minor and inexpensive to fix
- You have the cash, time, and contractor access
- You plan to sell to a retail buyer using a mortgage
- The home is otherwise in good condition and priced near market value
Fixing violations can help you:
- Pass inspection and close with more buyer types
- Avoid negotiations or price cuts
- Potentially increase the appraised value
But if the violations are major, fixing them may cost tens of thousands of dollars — money you may not have or recoup in a sale.
When It Makes More Sense to Sell As-Is
You should strongly consider selling your house with code violations as-is if:
- You’re behind on mortgage or tax payments
- The repairs would cost more than the home’s value gain
- You’re facing a time crunch (foreclosure, relocation, divorce)
- You inherited a distressed property
- You’re already overwhelmed and don’t want to manage contractors or permits
At Frank Jr. Buys Houses, we routinely purchase homes in Orlando and surrounding areas with:
- Active code enforcement violations
- Unpermitted work
- Liens or fines
- Major deferred maintenance
You don’t need to clean, repair, or remove anything. We buy as-is and close in 7–14 days, all cash.
See What We Can Offer You or call (305) 775-8750
Will Code Violations Affect My Sale Price?
Yes — violations can impact your sale price in one of two ways:
- If you’re listing on the MLS, buyers will expect the price to reflect the costs of resolving the issues. You may also need to lower your asking price to attract interest or pass inspection.
- If you’re selling to a cash investor, the offer will typically be lower than market value — but there are no commissions, no repairs, and no closing delays, which often makes up for it.
What If There Are Fines or Liens?
Some Orlando homes with code violations also carry daily fines or liens placed by the city or county.
The good news: many local investors (including us) are experienced at negotiating or resolving these liens as part of the transaction. This saves you time, money, and stress.
You don’t need to pay the fines upfront — they can often be handled at closing.
Selling a House With Code Violations in Orlando: Your Options
Option 1: Fix and List Retail
- Timeframe: 60–90 days (after repairs)
- Upfront Costs: Medium to High
- Best For: Homes in solid condition otherwise
Option 2: Sell As-Is to Investor
- Timeframe: 7–21 days
- Upfront Costs: None
- Best For: Homes with significant repairs or urgency
Option 3: Hybrid Approach
- Consider listing with a local agent who also buys homes (like myself), and evaluate both retail and investor routes before committing.
Final Thoughts: Should You Fix Code Violations Before Selling?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer — but for many Orlando homeowners, fixing violations isn’t required, and selling as-is is often faster, cheaper, and more practical.
Before you pour thousands into repairs or delay your move, let’s talk.
As a local real estate professional and investor, I’ll give you a no-pressure assessment of what your home is worth in its current condition — and if it makes sense to fix or skip the repairs entirely.
Request Your No-Obligation Offer or call (305) 775-8750
FAQs: Selling Homes With Code Violations in Orlando
Can I legally sell a house with code violations in Florida?
Yes. Disclosure is important, and you’ll need a buyer who accepts the violations, such as a cash investor.
Do violations get passed to the new owner?
Yes — unresolved violations, fines, and liens become the new owner’s responsibility. This is why many traditional buyers back out.
Can an investor help me clear up liens?
Yes. We regularly purchase homes with city liens and negotiate reductions or payoffs at closing.
How fast can I sell a house with violations?
If you accept a cash offer, you can close in as little as 7–14 days — no repairs, no inspections, no surprises.