Pre‑List Repairs vs Builder Warranty: Lakewood Ranch Sellers

Should you fix issues before you list your Lakewood Ranch home, or lean on your builder warranty and let the buyer take it from there? It is a common question in a community with both new builds and recent resales. You want a smooth sale, the best price, and no surprises late in the contract. This guide gives you a simple, local framework to decide what to repair, when to use the builder warranty, what to disclose, and how to prepare your home to sell with confidence. Let’s dive in.

Lakewood Ranch market reality

Lakewood Ranch includes many villages and product types, from townhomes and villas to custom estates, with dozens of active builders. That mix means warranty options and likely repair needs vary by home and age. Learn more about the community’s scale and builder presence on the official site for Lakewood Ranch. (community overview)

Recent reports for Sarasota and Manatee point to a more balanced market with higher inventory and longer days on market. In balanced markets, buyers often press harder on inspection findings. Review current trends from the Realtor Association of Sarasota and Manatee to set your strategy. (local market report)

What builder warranties cover

Florida law requires builders to warrant a newly constructed home for one year for defects that cause a material Florida Building Code violation. This statutory warranty benefits the original owner and only covers certain defects tied to code issues. (Florida statute)

Many builders also use an industry format often called “1-2-10.” That usually means one year on workmanship and materials, two years on delivery systems like electrical and plumbing, and ten years for major structural defects, subject to the contract. These added protections are contractual, not part of the statute, and details vary. (new home warranties basics)

If you own a condo or attached product, separate statutes may apply to building elements. Ask your agent or attorney to review your documents when needed.

Pre-list fixes that matter

In Florida, buyers and lenders focus first on health, safety, and function. In Lakewood Ranch, the most common priority items are:

• Roof issues and water intrusion, especially after storms.
• HVAC performance, given Florida heat and humidity.
• Termite activity and any related wood damage. Termites are common across Florida, so plan for an inspection or proof of treatment. (termite risk overview)
• Electrical and plumbing hazards, plus pool equipment and deck concerns.

Costs vary by home and scope. Minor roof repairs can run a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, while full replacements often reach the five figures. Use a licensed roofer for a firm estimate. (roof repair cost context)

When to lean on warranty

If you are the original owner and still within the one-year statutory window, submit a claim for qualifying construction defects and keep written records. That is what the warranty is for, and many builders will inspect and repair under their program. You can still make small cosmetic fixes before listing to boost first impressions, then disclose the warranty claim status to buyers. (Florida statute)

If you are beyond the one-year statutory period, check your builder’s 1-2-10 documents for current coverage and transfer rules. Some policies are transferable, sometimes with notice or a fee. If no coverage applies, prepare to repair, credit, or negotiate. (1-2-10 overview)

Florida disclosure basics

Florida sellers must disclose known facts that materially affect value and are not readily observable to a buyer. This duty exists whether you repair or not, and it applies to issues a pre-list inspection uncovers. Work with your agent on what to disclose and how to present documentation. (disclosure duty explained)

Step-by-step seller plan

1. Confirm your warranty status. Locate builder paperwork and verify whether you are within the statutory year or any transferable 1-2-10 program. If covered, start claims now. (Florida statute)

2. Consider a pre-list inspection. In a balanced market, a seller-side report helps you triage what to fix, price correctly, and head off renegotiations. (pre-list inspection guidance)

3. Triage findings. Fix safety and lender-blocking items first, then evaluate big-ticket items like roof, HVAC, and termite treatment. Cosmetic touch-ups come after essentials.

4. Get bids and check permits. Use licensed contractors, keep invoices and photos, and confirm whether work needs a permit through Manatee County’s portal. (Manatee permitting)

5. Decide repair vs credit. For high-cost items, a documented estimate and a buyer credit can keep momentum if timing is tight.

6. Prepare a clean disclosure packet. Include service records, permits, termite certificates, and warranty claim status. Clear documentation builds trust.

Repair or credit strategy

• Repair now when the item affects safety, financing, insurability, or first impressions. These fixes reduce contract risk and support price.
• Offer a credit when timing is tight, contractor schedules are long, or buyer preferences vary on materials or finishes.
• Use active warranty claims where available, but keep buyers informed with timelines and proof of communication.

Costs and ROI snapshot

• Essential fixes usually protect value by preventing failed appraisals, lender conditions, or walkaways.
• A modest pre-list inspection can reduce surprises and last-minute concessions, especially when inventory is higher. (pre-list inspection guidance)
• Visible improvements that reassure buyers, like a serviced HVAC or a roof tune-up, often shorten time on market.

Ready to list with confidence

With the right plan, you can balance smart pre-list repairs with proper use of your builder warranty, meet Florida disclosure rules, and keep control of your timeline. If you want a tailored plan for your Lakewood Ranch village and price point, reach out to a local pro who handles this process every day. For white-glove guidance, market-savvy pricing, and contractor coordination, connect with Janelle Miller.

FAQs

What does Florida’s 1-year builder warranty cover?

• The statute covers defects in a newly constructed home that cause a material Florida Building Code violation for the original owner during the first year after conveyance or occupancy. (Florida statute)

Should Lakewood Ranch sellers get a pre-list inspection?

• In a balanced market, a seller-side inspection can help you prioritize repairs, price accurately, and avoid late-stage concessions. (pre-list inspection guidance)

Are 1-2-10 builder warranties transferable on resale?

• Many are, but rules vary and may require notice or a fee, so review your specific documents. (1-2-10 overview)

How should you handle termite concerns before listing in Florida?

• Order an inspection, treat if needed, and keep certificates for buyers since termite activity is common statewide. (termite risk overview)

What disclosures must Florida home sellers provide?

• You must disclose known material defects that are not readily observable, and you should keep clear records of repairs and warranty claims. (disclosure duty explained)