Short Answer
After the inspection, you can request that the seller address specific issues, provide a credit at closing, or reduce the purchase price. Focus on significant safety, structural, and systems issues, not cosmetic items. Your agent will present the inspection report and your repair request to the seller, who can agree, counter, or refuse. If an agreement cannot be reached, you may have the right to walk away with your earnest money.
The post-inspection negotiation is a normal part of the home buying process. After the inspection, your agent will review the report with you and identify items worth requesting. The most effective approach is to focus on major issues: structural problems, roof leaks, HVAC or plumbing issues, electrical hazards, water damage, mold, and safety concerns. Minor items like cosmetic imperfections, light bulbs, or normal wear and tear are typically not worth negotiating. Your agent will prepare a formal repair request or addendum to the contract. The seller can agree to make the repairs before closing, provide a credit at closing so you can make the repairs yourself, reduce the purchase price, or refuse all requests. If the seller refuses to address a significant issue, your contract may allow you to walk away with your earnest money intact, depending on the contingency terms. Most sellers are willing to negotiate on reasonable requests. The key is being fair and focused on significant items.
Bob's Advice
Redfin Senior Agent · AI Certified Agent
The inspection negotiation can make or break a deal. I have seen transactions fall apart over $500 disagreements, and I have seen buyers walk away from homes with serious problems that would have cost them thousands. My role is to help you negotiate fairly and firmly. I want you to feel confident that you are buying a home that is safe, sound, and fairly valued. Let us review the inspection together and build a reasonable request list.
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