🏠 Home Inspection Findings and How to Negotiate Repairs

Buying a home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make — and the home inspection is your best tool for understanding exactly what you’re getting into. Whether it’s a brand-new build or a decades-old property, every home will have a few issues pop up during the inspection. The key is knowing which ones matter most and how to negotiate repairs effectively.

🔍 Understanding the Home Inspection Report

Once your inspection is complete, you’ll receive a detailed report outlining the condition of the home. It can feel overwhelming at first, but not every item is a dealbreaker.

Here’s how to think about what you’ll see:

• Minor issues – Things like loose door handles, chipped paint, or worn weather stripping. These are typical in any home.

• Moderate concerns – Items such as an aging roof, older appliances, or outdated electrical systems.

• Major issues – Structural problems, plumbing or electrical hazards, foundation cracks, or roof leaks.

👉 Tip: Don’t panic if the report looks long. Focus on the items that impact safety, structure, and functionality — those are the ones worth negotiating.

🤝 Deciding What to Ask For

After reviewing the report with your real estate agent, decide which issues are most important to address. Common repair requests include:

• Structural or foundation concerns

• Roof damage or leaks

• Electrical or plumbing safety issues

• HVAC malfunctions

• Water intrusion or drainage problems

• Mold, radon, or other health hazards

Cosmetic fixes (like paint, carpet, or trim) are usually best left to the buyer after closing, unless they directly affect the home’s condition or value.

💬 How to Negotiate Repairs

When it’s time to respond to the inspection, you generally have three main options:

1. Ask the seller to make repairs before closing

   • Ideal for safety or functionality issues.

   • Always request licensed professionals and receipts for any work completed.

2. Request a credit or price reduction

   • Lets you handle the repairs on your terms, with your contractors.

   • Keeps the transaction moving smoothly toward closing.

3. Accept the home as-is

   • Common in competitive markets or when you plan to remodel.

🧠 Be Strategic and Reasonable

The negotiation phase works best when both sides are focused on solutions.Here are a few tips to keep it productive:

• Prioritize health, safety, and structural concerns.

• Avoid nickel-and-diming the seller over small, cosmetic issues.

• Stay respectful and flexible — sometimes credits or small concessions make the deal work.

• Trust your agent’s experience — they know what’s customary in your market and how to present your requests effectively.

✅ The Final Walkthrough

Before closing, schedule a final walkthrough to confirm that all agreed-upon repairs were completed and the property is in the condition you expect. Bring a copy of your inspection report and the repair addendum for reference.

💡 Final Thoughts

A home inspection isn’t about finding a “perfect” house — it’s about making an informed purchase. With the right strategy and an experienced agent on your side, you can negotiate repairs fairly and confidently, ensuring your new home is safe, functional, and ready for move-in day.

For trusted and thorough inspections, consider partnering with Lion Heart Home Inspections —“Your Family • Your Trust • Your Home.”