Selling a home with code violations can feel overwhelming, especially in a city like New Orleans where historic properties and older infrastructure often come with their share of compliance issues. Whether you’ve inherited a property that hasn’t been maintained, own a rental with tenant damage, or simply can’t afford the repairs, code violations can make a traditional sale seem impossible.
The good news? You have options. While fixing violations and listing with an agent is one path, it’s not the only one—and it’s certainly not the fastest. Many New Orleans homeowners are discovering that selling “as-is” to cash buyers offers a practical solution that eliminates the stress, expense, and time required by conventional sales.
This guide will walk you through what code violations mean for your sale, your legal obligations under New Orleans ordinances, and how companies like Bertucci Investment Group can help you close quickly without making a single repair.
Understanding Code Violations in New Orleans
Code violations occur when a property doesn’t meet the standards set by local building codes and ordinances. These regulations exist to ensure homes are safe, structurally sound, and compliant with zoning laws.
Common code violations in New Orleans include:
- Structural damage: Sagging roofs, foundation cracks, or compromised framing
- Electrical hazards: Outdated wiring, exposed electrical panels, or missing outlets
- Plumbing issues: Leaking pipes, faulty water heaters, or non-functioning sewage systems
- Zoning problems: Unpermitted additions, illegal conversions, or properties used for purposes not allowed in their zone
- Exterior deterioration: Peeling paint (especially lead paint), broken windows, or unsafe porches
- Fire safety violations: Missing smoke detectors, blocked exits, or faulty sprinkler systems
These violations can range from minor cosmetic issues to serious safety hazards. Left unaddressed, they can lead to fines, legal action, or even forced property sales.
Legal Implications of Selling With Code Violations
New Orleans city ordinances require property owners to maintain their homes according to specific standards. When violations are present, the city may issue notices requiring repairs within a certain timeframe. Ignoring these notices can result in escalating fines and legal complications.
When it comes to selling, Louisiana law requires sellers to disclose known defects and code violations to potential buyers. Failing to do so can lead to lawsuits after the sale closes. However, this disclosure requirement becomes less of an issue when you sell “as-is” to a cash buyer who understands the property’s condition upfront.
Traditional real estate transactions often hit roadblocks when code violations are discovered during inspections. Lenders typically won’t approve mortgages for properties with significant code issues, which means conventional buyers will either back out or demand that you fix everything before closing. This can delay your sale by months and cost thousands of dollars.
The Traditional Route: Fixing Violations and Listing
Some homeowners choose to address code violations before listing their property with a real estate agent. While this approach can work, it comes with significant drawbacks:
Time-consuming repairs: Depending on the severity of violations, repairs can take weeks or months. You’ll need to hire licensed contractors, obtain permits, and pass inspections—all while continuing to pay mortgage, insurance, and property taxes.
Expensive fixes: Structural repairs, electrical upgrades, and plumbing work aren’t cheap. Costs can easily run into tens of thousands of dollars, and there’s no guarantee you’ll recoup that investment when you sell.
Agent commissions and fees: Even after paying for repairs, you’ll still owe 5-6% in real estate commissions plus closing costs, which can total 8-10% of your sale price.
No guarantee of sale: After all that time and money, there’s no certainty your home will sell quickly or for the price you need.
For many New Orleans homeowners—especially those dealing with inherited properties, financial hardship, or time constraints—this traditional path simply isn’t feasible.
The Cash Sale Solution: Selling “As-Is”
Selling your house “as-is” to a cash buyer eliminates the need to fix code violations before closing. Here’s why this option is gaining popularity among New Orleans homeowners:
No repairs required: Cash buyers like Bertucci Investment Group purchase properties in any condition. Structural damage, electrical problems, zoning issues—none of it matters. You can sell without spending a dime on repairs.
Fast closing: Without the need for lengthy inspections, repairs, and mortgage approvals, cash sales can close in as little as 7 days. You choose the closing date that works for your schedule.
No agent commissions: When you sell directly to a cash buyer, there’s no need for a real estate agent. That means you keep more of your sale proceeds instead of paying 5-6% in commissions.
Certainty: Cash offers aren’t contingent on financing, so there’s no risk of the deal falling through at the last minute. Once you accept an offer, the sale is virtually guaranteed.
We handle everything: From title issues to legal paperwork, reputable cash buyers manage the entire process. You simply show up to closing and collect your check.
Why Choose Bertucci Investment Group
At Bertucci Investment Group, we specialize in helping New Orleans homeowners sell properties with code violations quickly and fairly. Our process is designed to be transparent, straightforward, and stress-free:
24-hour offers: Submit your property details, and we’ll provide a fair cash offer within 24 hours—no obligation to accept.
Close in 7 days: Need to sell fast? We can close in as little as one week. Or, if you need more time, we’ll work with your timeline.
Zero fees or commissions: Our offer is what you get. We cover all closing costs, so there are no hidden fees or last-minute deductions.
Local expertise: As New Orleans natives, we understand the unique challenges of selling older homes in this market. We’ve helped hundreds of homeowners navigate difficult situations, from inherited properties to homes facing foreclosure.
We’re not just investors—we’re neighbors who care about our community and our reputation. Check out our reviews from satisfied clients who’ve worked with us to sell their homes quickly and fairly.
Circumstances We Assist With
Bertucci Investment Group works with homeowners in all kinds of situations:
Inherited houses: Dealing with an inherited property that has code violations? We buy inherited homes in any condition, handling all the legal complexities so you don’t have to.
Rental properties: Tired of dealing with problem tenants and expensive repairs? Sell your rental property to us and move on without the hassle.
Avoiding foreclosure: Behind on mortgage payments with code violations making a traditional sale impossible? We can help you avoid foreclosure by purchasing your home quickly, even if you owe more than it’s worth.
Divorce or relocation: Need to sell fast due to divorce or a job transfer? We offer flexible closing dates and fair prices to help you move forward.
Fire or water damage: Properties with significant damage can be nearly impossible to sell traditionally. We buy homes with fire damage, flood damage, and other serious issues.
No matter your circumstances, we’re here to provide a solution that works for you.
Moving Forward: Your Path to a Stress-Free Sale
Selling a house with code violations doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. While fixing violations and listing traditionally may work for some, it’s not the right choice for everyone—especially those who need to sell quickly or can’t afford costly repairs.
By selling “as-is” to a cash buyer, you can skip the repairs, avoid the fees, and close on your timeline. At Bertucci Investment Group, we’ve made it our mission to help New Orleans homeowners navigate difficult situations with honesty, transparency, and respect.
Ready to get started? Fill out our quick form or call us at (504) 920-4747 to receive your fair cash offer within 24 hours. There’s no obligation, no pressure—just a straightforward solution to help you sell your house fast and move on with your life.