Repair Negotiations
Negotiations After a Home Inspection: Tips for Getting Repairs & Closing Credits
Nearly all home inspection reports list items in need of repair or replacement. Negotiations after home inspection are common. If major defects that require costly repairs come up, it’s reasonable to ask the seller to make the repairs or issue you a credit at closing to cover the cost of repair. On the other hand, requesting repairs or credits for minor cosmetic issues can create a hostile transaction that will be more difficult to navigate should you need to ask the seller for concessions or extensions in the future. Your agent can guide you on what is worth negotiating.
Attend Your Inspection
It’s inspection day! You don’t have to be there- BUT YOU SHOULD, even if it’s only for an hour at the end of the inspection. Even though you’ll receive a report summarizing the findings later on, being there gives you a chance to ask questions, and to learn the inner workings of the home.
Ask the inspector how long you should plan on being there in advance. The inspector will survey the property from top to bottom. This includes checking water pressure, leaks in the attic, plumbing, if door and window frames are straight (if not, it could be a sign of structural issues), if electrical wiring is up to code, if smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working, and if appliances are working properly. Outside, he or she will look at things like siding, fencing, and drainage.
