Negotiating Repairs: A Guide to Post-Home Inspection Discussions

Buying a home is a significant investment, and it’s crucial to ensure that the property you’re purchasing is in good condition. A home inspection is a vital part of the home buying process, providing an opportunity to uncover any potential issues with the property. But what happens when the home inspection reveals problems? Can you negotiate repairs after a home inspection? The answer is yes, and this guide will walk you through the process of negotiating repairs after a home inspection.

Understanding the Home Inspection Report

The home inspection report is a detailed document that outlines the condition of the property. It covers everything from the structural integrity of the home to the condition of the electrical system, plumbing, and more. Understanding this report is crucial as it forms the basis of your negotiations.

Identifying Major vs. Minor Repairs

Not all issues identified in a home inspection report are equal. Some are minor, cosmetic issues that you can easily fix yourself after purchasing the property. Others are major issues that could affect the safety and livability of the home. It’s important to differentiate between these two types of repairs when negotiating.

• Major Repairs: These are significant issues that could affect the safety, structure, or functionality of the home. Examples include a damaged roof, faulty electrical wiring, or serious plumbing issues. These are the types of repairs you should focus on during negotiations.
• Minor Repairs: These are smaller, cosmetic issues that don’t affect the safety or functionality of the home. Examples include peeling paint, minor cracks in the walls, or outdated fixtures. While you can mention these in negotiations, they shouldn’t be your main focus.

Negotiating Repairs

Once you’ve identified the major repairs, it’s time to negotiate. There are several ways you can approach this:

• Request the Seller to Make Repairs: You can ask the seller to fix the issues before closing. This is often the best option if the repairs are extensive or costly.
• Ask for a Price Reduction: If the seller is unwilling or unable to make the repairs, you can ask for a reduction in the purchase price to cover the cost of repairs.
• Request a Repair Credit: Another option is to ask the seller to provide a credit at closing, which you can use to cover the cost of repairs after purchasing the home.

Negotiating repairs after a home inspection can be a complex process, but it’s an important step in ensuring that you’re making a sound investment. By understanding the home inspection report, identifying major versus minor repairs, and knowing your options for negotiation, you can navigate this process with confidence.