Short Answer
After the home inspection, review the report with your agent and prioritize issues by safety, major systems, and cosmetic concerns. Request repairs for safety hazards and major system defects. Consider requesting a credit at closing instead of asking the seller to make repairs, which gives you control over the work. Be reasonable in your requests. Sellers are more likely to agree to repairs for safety issues and major defects than for cosmetic or minor items.
The inspection negotiation is a critical step in the home buying process. Start by reviewing the inspection report with your agent and categorizing every issue. Safety issues like faulty wiring, gas leaks, or radon require immediate attention. Major system issues like a failing HVAC, roof problems, or plumbing defects should be addressed. Cosmetic issues like paint, carpet, or minor wear are typically not negotiable. Your options include asking the seller to make the repairs with licensed contractors, requesting a credit at closing so you can handle the repairs yourself, negotiating a lower purchase price to account for the needed repairs, or accepting the home as-is if the issues are minor. Most negotiations result in a compromise. The seller may agree to fix safety issues and major defects but decline cosmetic requests. The key is being reasonable and understanding that the seller has no obligation to make repairs beyond what is specified in the contract. Your agent will guide you through the negotiation strategy.
Bob's Advice
Redfin Senior Agent · AI Certified Agent
I have been through hundreds of inspection negotiations, and the key is knowing what to ask for and what to let go. Safety issues and major defects are non-negotiable. Cosmetic issues are your responsibility. I will help you create a reasonable request list that protects your interests without killing the deal. If the seller refuses reasonable requests, I will help you evaluate your options, including walking away if the issues are too significant.
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