Due Diligence in North Carolina — What Every Buyer & Seller Needs to Know in 2025

When it comes to buying or selling a home in North Carolina, one phrase you’ll hear over and over is “due diligence.” Whether you’re purchasing your first home in the Triad, selling in the Triangle, or investing in off-market opportunities, understanding how the due diligence period works is critical. With the October 2025 contract updates now in effect, this period has never been more important.

What Is the Due Diligence Period?

In North Carolina, the due diligence period is the time after a buyer and seller sign a contract during which the buyer investigates the property. This includes inspections, appraisals, title searches, HOA document reviews, and loan approval.

During this time, the buyer has the unrestricted right to walk away for any reason — but it comes at a cost. The buyer pays a due diligence fee directly to the seller as a show of good faith.

What Changed in 2025?

As of October 1, 2025, the NC Real Estate Commission updated contract rules:

• Clearer Disclosure Requirements: Sellers must be transparent about material facts earlier in the process.

• Stricter Handling of Deposits: Due diligence and earnest money must be managed in compliance with trust account rules.

• Investor Oversight: With wholesalers now required to be licensed, investors must play by the same rules, making due diligence even more crucial in creative deals.

Why the Due Diligence Fee Matters

For buyers, the due diligence fee is non-refundable if you walk away — but it secures your right to investigate. Fees in the Triad often range from $500–$2,000 depending on price point, while in the Triangle, due diligence fees of $5,000–$15,000+ are not unusual in competitive, high-demand neighborhoods.

For sellers, this fee provides some protection — if the deal falls through, you keep the due diligence money. But smart sellers also want to ensure buyers are qualified, so the deal doesn’t collapse after inspections.

Tips for Buyers

1. Budget for Due Diligence: Don’t get caught off guard — have liquid funds ready.

2. Move Quickly: Schedule inspections early to maximize your time.

3. Work With a Realtor: An experienced agent can negotiate reasonable fees and guide you on what to push back on.

Tips for Sellers

1. Price Realistically: Overpricing can lead to failed contracts and wasted time in due diligence.

2. Pre-Inspection: Address issues upfront to prevent buyer re-negotiations.

3. Vet Buyers: Accept offers from buyers who show strong financial backing.

Investors & Due Diligence

Investors in 2025 must be especially cautious. With wholesalers now under licensing requirements, every transaction must comply with NC law. For creative strategies like BRRR, double closes, or seller carryback financing, the due diligence process is where deals are either secured or lost.

Final Thoughts

The due diligence period is one of the most unique features of NC real estate and a powerful tool for both buyers and sellers — but only if you understand how it works. With new contract changes in effect, professional guidance is more important than ever.

📲 Ready to navigate North Carolina’s due diligence process with confidence? Call or text me at (336) 567-5843 or book your consultation here: Book Here