As a homebuyer, a thorough inspection is necessary to ensure that the house you plan to purchase is in good condition. However, it’s not uncommon to discover issues during the inspection. The question then arises: who is responsible for addressing these repairs, you or the seller? Here’s a guide on how to negotiate necessary repairs after a home inspection.
Pick Your Battles
It’s important to prioritize the necessary repairs that are most important and offer to waive the minor ones. This approach shows the seller that you are being reasonable and flexible. This can also prevent any future disputes over small issues that are not worth arguing over.
Not So Fast…
While it’s important to be reasonable, you should not immediately accept the existence of all minor issues. For instance, if the walls are damaged, paint is peeling, or the faucets are leaking, you should obtain estimates to mitigate the issues and present them to the seller. If you know that you’ll still purchase the home with a dripping sink, but the seller doesn’t know this, you’ll have bargaining power in the future. An experienced agent can help you navigate this delicate situation and relay your concerns to the seller.
Credit Where Credit is Due
If the inspection uncovers a costly issue, it’s often better to ask for a credit at closing that’s equal to the estimated cost of the repair. This approach gives you control over the quality and timing of the work. Without a credit, there is a risk that the seller may get the repairs done cheaply, which may impact the quality and your closing date. When requesting a credit, make sure you obtain a fair estimate for the cost of the repair, and be prepared for the seller to further negotiate the quote.
Anticipate Negotiation
It’s important to remember that a negotiation may occur after the inspection. Don’t give up your right to necessary repairs because you’re afraid of losing the home. Address your needs to the seller and cut a sensible deal. This is the key to successful negotiation.
In conclusion, negotiating home repairs after an inspection is a delicate process. It’s important to stay level-headed, be reasonable, and keep your priorities in mind. By following these tips, you can navigate this situation with confidence and get the necessary repairs done before closing on your new home.
