How to Negotiate Repairs After a Home Inspection: A Buyer’s Guide to Protecting Your Investment

Home inspections are a critical step in the buying process—they can reveal hidden issues that may affect the value, safety, or livability of the property. Once the inspection report is in, it’s time to negotiate repairs with the seller. This stage can be sensitive, but it’s also an opportunity to protect your investment and ensure you're making a sound decision.

Here’s how to approach the repair negotiation process like a pro:

Step 1: Review the Inspection Report Thoroughly

Not every item flagged in a home inspection needs to be addressed. Focus on:

Major structural issues (foundation cracks, roof problems)
Safety concerns (electrical hazards, mold, radon, lead paint)
Plumbing, HVAC, or appliance malfunctions
Active leaks or signs of water damage

Cosmetic issues or minor wear and tear are often considered part of buying a pre-owned home.

Step 2: Prioritize Your Requests

You don't want to overwhelm the seller with a laundry list of small requests. Instead, prioritize:

Deal-breakers: Major defects that make the home unsafe or unlivable.
High-cost items: Repairs that could significantly impact your budget post-closing.
Code violations or unpermitted work that may require correction.

Being realistic and focused helps make negotiations smoother and more productive.

Step 3: Know Your Options for Negotiation

Once you've decided what to request, there are typically three ways to move forward:

Ask the Seller to Make Repairs Before Closing
Ideal for straightforward fixes. Make sure all work is done by licensed professionals and receipts are provided.
Request a Price Reduction or Credit at Closing
This gives you control over how and when the repairs are done. A credit can also help cover temporary fixes until full repairs are made.
Negotiate a Combination of Both
For example, the seller repairs the roof, but you get a credit for updating the HVAC system.

Step 4: Be Professional and Strategic in Your Approach

Use your agent: A skilled real estate agent will guide you through the process and communicate your concerns effectively to the seller's side.
Be respectful: Sellers can get defensive—present your requests based on facts, not emotions.
Provide estimates: Supporting your request with repair quotes or contractor estimates adds credibility and clarity.

Step 5: Prepare for Pushback or Counteroffers

Sellers are not obligated to fix everything. They may:

Agree to some repairs but not all
Offer a smaller credit than requested
Refuse to negotiate, especially in a hot market

You’ll need to evaluate your comfort level with the response. In some cases, walking away may be the best option if the repairs are too extensive and the seller won’t budge.

Final Thoughts

Negotiating repairs after a home inspection doesn’t have to be confrontational—it’s about reaching a fair agreement that reflects the true condition of the home. With the right mindset, good advice from your agent, and a focus on the big-picture issues, you can navigate this phase with confidence and protect your investment for years to come.

✨ Let’s connect:
📧 dexter@dexterwilkie.com
📞 902.314.9686
🌐 dexterwilkie.royallepage.ca

You only get one first impression —
Let’s make it unforgettable.

- Dexter

🛠️ How to Negotiate Repairs After a Home Inspection