being sued in small claims court by buyer

[Carl Janssen]

We were selling a vacant home as is through a realtor and had a amended signed offer that buyers could go in and fix peeling paint so appraisal could come out higher. Realtor over the phone discussed it as touch up painting. We agreed. Exact wording was, The buyer will take care of the painting and adding smoke detectors. We were not present when they did the "touch up painting". The closing came and went three times with all documented extension paperwork. The buyers could not get loan financing on the final day of closing. We decided to cut our losses and not extend the contract or accept a new offer, as this has been going on over two months. Anyway, they are now sueing us for nearly 4000.00 dollars to be reimbursed for painting garage, outside evs, two rooms and a closet.  They have copies of bills for supplies and pics of work being done.They are charging us 25.00 per hour labor that their family helped with.   We have relisted the house with another realtor for less money than we listed the 1st time, so we were not looking to make money off their work which they also claim. What are our chances in court?

[Upen Patel]

@Carl Janssen As @Wayne Brooks said, don't worry about this. Just a few pointers to help you in small claims court.

* There is no lawyer. You represent yourself. Be professionally dressed.

* Present the information to the Judge as a matter of fact. Don't become the Judge and make accusations.

* Present each document as a separate piece of evidence. Label each (D-1, D-2, etc.) Starting with D as you are the defendant.

* Have a summary sheet that lists each document label and a one liner (e.g. Purchase contract for As-is property)

This will make life each of the judge and increase your chances.

*** I am not a lawyer. This is just my opinion based on past experience. ***