What typically comes up at resale
- Smoke/CO/extinguisher certificate. Statewide, one- and two-family homes generally need a certificate of smoke alarm, carbon monoxide alarm, and portable fire extinguisher compliance from the local fire or code official before a sale.
- Local resale inspections. Many municipalities require a certificate of occupancy or continued certificate of occupancy (CCO) inspection on resale. Requirements vary by town.
- Open permits. Work done under a permit that never received final inspection can show up in a title or municipal search.
- Property maintenance citations. Overgrowth, debris, unsafe structures, or rental violations can carry fines.
Why traditional buyers struggle
- Lenders and appraisers may require violations cured before closing, and many buyers can’t fund repairs on top of a down payment.
- Uncovering unpermitted work late in a sale often leads to renegotiation or cancellation.
How an as-is sale to us works
- Tell us what you know — open violations, fines, unpermitted work. We confirm the details with the municipality as part of our due diligence.
- Where a town allows a buyer to take responsibility for corrections after closing, we do. Where something must be addressed first, we tell you upfront and plan for it.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to pay the fines before selling?
It depends on the town and the type of violation. Outstanding municipal liens are typically paid from the proceeds at closing.
Can you buy a house the town has deemed unsafe?
Often yes. We evaluate each one individually.
Where we buy
Cliffwood Beach · Old Bridge · Aberdeen · Lakewood · Toms River · Jackson · Howell · Brick · Freehold · Middletown · Keyport · Long Branch · Asbury Park · Neptune · Manchester
This page is general information about New Jersey processes, not legal or tax advice. Rules change and every situation is different — consult a New Jersey attorney, accountant, or HUD-approved housing counselor about your specific circumstances.