Selling a Home with a Sinkhole History in Florida: What You Need to Disclose

When you think about selling your Florida home, the last thing you want is for a sinkhole history to sink your chances. But don’t worry—having a sinkhole in the past doesn’t mean you’re stuck. In fact, with the right approach, you can still close a great deal. The key? Understanding Florida’s sinkhole disclosure laws, knowing your repair options, and marketing smartly.



If you’re prepping to sell a home with a sinkhole history, you’re in the right place. 904 Home Buyer is here to help sellers like you feel confident, informed, and ready to tackle the market head-on.

Why Sinkholes Are Such a Big Deal in Florida

Florida’s not exactly shy about its sinkholes. Thanks to the limestone bedrock and heavy rains, sinkholes pop up across the state more often than anywhere else in the country. Some are tiny and barely noticeable; others can swallow whole sections of property.

For homebuyers, even a past sinkhole issue can cause major hesitation. Fear of future problems, financing difficulties, and insurance woes all come into play. That’s why Florida has strict laws about disclosing sinkhole history—and why it’s crucial for sellers to be upfront and prepared.

What Florida Law Says About Sinkhole Disclosures

Here's the bottom line: If your property has had any sinkhole activity, you are legally required to disclose it to potential buyers. Florida law (specifically under Florida Statute 627.706 and real estate disclosure rules) makes it crystal clear.

You need to disclose:

• Confirmed sinkhole activity (whether repaired or not)
  
• Sinkhole claims you’ve made with your insurance company
  
• Repairs that were completed following a sinkhole incident
  
• Ongoing issues related to prior sinkhole damage
  
  

Even if the problem was minor and properly fixed, you still have to disclose it. Trying to hide it or downplay the issue can not only destroy the sale—it could also land you in hot water legally later.



Bottom line? Honesty is non-negotiable. And in truth, being upfront can actually help you attract serious buyers who appreciate your transparency.

Your Options for Repairing a Sinkhole-Damaged Home

If your home had sinkhole issues that were never repaired, now’s the time to take action. Buyers (and their lenders) are going to ask hard questions. Here’s a look at the repair routes:

1. Grouting

This involves injecting a concrete mixture into the ground to stabilize the soil and fill any underground voids. It’s a common fix for smaller sinkhole activity.

2. Underpinning

This process uses steel piers driven deep into the ground to support the home’s foundation. It’s often used for more serious structural repairs.

3. Combination Approach

In many cases, engineers recommend a mix of grouting and underpinning for maximum stability.



Pro tip: Always work with licensed contractors and geotechnical engineers. Keep all repair records, engineering reports, permits, and warranties. These documents will be critical when it’s time to show buyers that the home has been professionally repaired and is safe.

How to Market a Home with a Sinkhole History

Selling a stigmatized property isn’t easy—but it’s definitely possible. Here’s how to position your home to make it as attractive as possible:

1. Highlight the Repairs

Show that the problem was handled the right way. Share engineering reports, certifications, and warranties upfront. The more proof you have, the more confidence you build with buyers.

2. Price Strategically

It’s unrealistic to expect top dollar after a sinkhole event, even with perfect repairs. Work with a real estate professional who understands local market conditions and can help you price it competitively without underselling it.

3. Market to the Right Buyers

Some buyers are willing to consider a home with a sinkhole history—especially investors, cash buyers, or people looking for a good deal. Make sure your marketing targets the right audience.



4. Offer Transferable Warranties

If your sinkhole repairs come with a transferable warranty, shout it from the rooftops. Buyers love knowing they have protection moving forward.

Common Buyer Concerns—and How to Address Them

Let’s be real: Buyers will have concerns. Here’s what usually comes up—and how you can calm those nerves:

"Will it happen again?"
Be ready with engineering reports that show the ground is stable and the issue was properly repaired.

"Can I even get insurance?"
Explain that most major insurers will cover homes with properly documented and repaired sinkhole issues. If possible, have an insurance quote ready to show.



"Will my lender approve the loan?"
FHA, VA, and conventional loans often require proof that sinkhole repairs meet certain standards. Having all paperwork prepared can make the process much smoother.

Final Thoughts: Honesty, Preparation, and a Little Confidence Go a Long Way

Selling a home with a sinkhole history in Florida isn’t about hiding the truth—it’s about owning it. With the right repairs, clear disclosures, and smart marketing, you can turn what feels like a major hurdle into just another chapter in the home’s story.



At 904 Home Buyer, we believe every home has potential, even those with a rocky past. If you need guidance on selling your property or want to explore options for a quick, hassle-free sale, we’re ready to help.