How to Negotiate Repairs After a Home Inspection
Buying a home is exciting, but the inspection phase can feel like a rollercoaster. One minute you’re picturing your life in the house, and the next, the inspector hands you a list of repairs that need fixing. Don’t panic! Negotiating repairs after a home inspection is a normal part of the process, and with the right strategy, you can protect your investment without burning bridges with the seller. Here’s how to handle it like a seasoned pro.
1. Start by Understanding the Inspection Report
The first step is to read the inspection report carefully. This document is your roadmap—it lists every issue the inspector found, from leaky faucets to foundation cracks. Take notes on what’s minor (like a broken doorbell) and what’s major (like a faulty roof). If you don’t understand something, ask your realtor or the inspector to explain. For example, terms like “ungrounded wiring” or “galvanized pipes” might sound scary, but they’re fixable. The key is to separate the “must-fix” problems from the “nice-to-have” upgrades.
Pro Tip: Highlight safety hazards first. Issues like mold, electrical problems, or structural damage should never be ignored. These aren’t just annoyances—they can cost you thousands later.
2. Prioritize What You’ll Ask For
Not every repair is worth fighting over. Focus on big-ticket items that affect the home’s safety or value. For instance, replacing old wiring or fixing a leaky roof is a fair ask. On the other hand, minor cosmetic issues (like chipped paint) are usually the buyer’s responsibility. If the seller agrees to fix these, great! If not, you can often handle them yourself after moving in.
How to Decide:
Safety First: Anything that risks your family’s safety (e.g., carbon monoxide leaks, unstable stairs).
Costly Repairs: Issues that are expensive to fix later, like plumbing or HVAC problems.
Dealbreakers: Problems that make you rethink buying the house (e.g., termite damage, foundation cracks).
3. Get Repair Estimates
Before negotiating, know how much repairs will cost. Ask contractors for quotes on the fixes you want. This gives you hard numbers to back up your requests. For example, if the roof needs $10,000 in repairs, you can ask the seller to cover that amount—either by fixing it themselves or lowering the sale price so you can handle it.
Why This Works: Sellers are more likely to agree if you present clear evidence. A vague “the roof is bad” won’t cut it, but a detailed estimate from a licensed roofer shows you’re serious.
4. Decide Whether to Ask for Repairs, Credits, or a Lower Price
You have three options when negotiating:
Request Repairs: Ask the seller to fix specific issues before closing.
Ask for a Credit: Get money off the purchase price to cover repairs you’ll do yourself.
Lower the Offer: Reduce your bid to account for the cost of fixes.
For newer homes or standard properties, asking for repairs is common. For older homes, credits or price reductions might be smarter, especially if the seller is hesitant to coordinate fixes.
Example: If the seller agrees to a $5,000 credit for a leaky pipe, you can use that money to hire your own plumber after closing.
5. Be Ready to Compromise
Negotiations are a two-way street. The seller might not agree to everything, so pick your battles. If they fix the electrical system but refuse to repaint the kitchen, let the small stuff go. You can always repaint later. Suggest splitting costs for mid-sized repairs—for example, offering to cover half the cost of a new water heater.
What NOT to Do:
Don’t nickel-and-dime the seller over tiny issues.
Avoid ultimatums unless you’re prepared to walk away.
6. Use a Licensed Professional for Major Fixes
If the seller agrees to repairs, insist they hire licensed contractors. DIY fixes by the seller’s handyman cousin might save them money now, but you’ll inherit the headache later. Get proof that the work was done properly, like permits or inspection reports.
Real-Life Scenario: Imagine the seller “fixes” the roof but uses cheap materials. A year later, it leaks again. Without a warranty or proof of quality, you’re stuck paying for it.
7. Know When to Walk Away
Sometimes, the inspection reveals problems so severe that the house isn’t worth it. For example, if the foundation is crumbling and the seller refuses to budge, it might be time to move on. Trust your gut—if the negotiation feels too hostile or the costs are too high, there are other homes out there.
8. Keep Communication Respectful
Even if negotiations get tense, stay polite. Accusing the seller of hiding issues or making lowball offers can backfire. Frame requests as “We’d love to make this work” instead of “You have to fix this.” A positive tone keeps the door open for solutions.
9. Review the Final Agreement
Once you and the seller agree, get everything in writing. The contract should list exactly what repairs will be done, who’s paying, and deadlines. If the seller promised a credit, confirm the amount and how it’ll be applied at closing.
Checklist for Closing:
Proof of completed repairs.
Copies of contractor invoices (if the seller handled fixes).
Updated sale price reflecting any credits or reductions.
10. Plan for the Unexpected
Even with a solid plan, surprises happen. Maybe the contractor finds more damage during repairs, or the seller backs out last minute. Have a backup plan, like setting aside extra cash for emergencies or knowing when to walk away.
Moving Forward with Confidence
Negotiating repairs after a home inspection isn’t about winning—it’s about making sure you’re happy with your investment for years to come. By staying informed, flexible, and respectful, you’ll navigate this step like a pro. Remember, the goal is a home that’s safe, functional, and ready for your future.
Now that you’re armed with these tips, go tackle that negotiation—and get ready to celebrate your new (soon-to-be-repaired) home!