“How to Negotiate Repairs After a Home Inspection”

You found your dream home, made an offer, and passed the appraisal — but the home inspection just came back with a few surprises. Don’t panic. Nearly every inspection reveals something that needs attention. The key is knowing how to negotiate repairs effectively so both you and the seller walk away happy.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to navigating post-inspection negotiations the smart way.

1. Review the Inspection Report Carefully

The first step is understanding what you’re dealing with. Home inspectors list everything from minor cosmetic flaws to serious safety issues, so it’s important to separate the must-fix from the nice-to-fix.

✅ Focus On:

• Structural issues (foundation, roof, framing)

• Electrical or plumbing hazards

• Major HVAC or water heater problems

• Water damage, mold, or pest infestations

💡 Tip: Don’t get distracted by small items like chipped paint or loose doorknobs. Concentrate on anything that affects safety, functionality, or long-term value.

2. Prioritize Repairs That Truly Matter

Once you’ve reviewed the report, make a short list of non-negotiables — the issues that must be addressed before closing or soon after.

✅ Examples:

• Roof leaks

• Faulty wiring

• Plumbing leaks

• Foundation cracks

Then decide which smaller repairs you can handle yourself later. This makes your request list reasonable — and shows the seller you’re being fair.

3. Decide How You Want the Repairs Handled

You have several options when asking for repairs. Discuss these with your agent to choose what’s best for your situation:

1. Seller makes the repairs before closing.

2. Seller provides a repair credit so you can handle it after moving in.

3. Seller reduces the sale price to offset the repair costs.

💡 Pro Tip: Many buyers prefer a credit — it gives you control over who does the work and how it’s done.

4. Get Repair Estimates

Before negotiating, get quotes from licensed contractors for the major issues. This helps you understand the real cost — and provides proof when asking for a credit or price adjustment.

✅ Why it matters:

• It keeps your requests grounded in reality.

• It prevents sellers from low-balling repair allowances.

• It helps your lender calculate closing figures accurately.

5. Be Professional and Strategic

Keep emotions out of the process. The goal isn’t to “win” — it’s to reach a fair resolution that keeps the deal alive.

✅ Best Practices:

• Work with your realtor to craft a clear, polite request.

• Prioritize top-impact repairs instead of submitting a laundry list.

• Back up your requests with quotes and inspection photos.

💡 Tone Tip: Use phrasing like “We’d like to request a credit of $4,000 toward roof repairs based on the attached estimate.” — calm, factual, and fair.

6. Consider the Seller’s Perspective

Remember, sellers are often juggling their own financial and timing pressures. A reasonable approach increases the chance they’ll agree to your terms.

✅ Be Flexible:

• Offer to split costs for borderline repairs.

• Suggest a repair credit instead of demanding physical work.

• Avoid ultimatums unless the issue is truly deal-breaking.

7. Know When to Walk Away

If a seller refuses to address major safety or structural issues, it may be time to reconsider the deal. It’s better to lose a property than inherit tens of thousands in unexpected repairs.

💡 Pro Tip: Lean on your realtor’s advice here — they can help you assess when to push harder and when to pivot.

💡 Final Thought

Negotiating repairs after a home inspection doesn’t have to be stressful. The key is preparation, fairness, and clear communication.

By focusing on essential repairs, backing your requests with data, and staying professional, you can protect your investment — and keep your dream home within reach.

Because in real estate, the best deals aren’t about confrontation — they’re about collaboration.