A home inspection is a common part of the buying process, but it often uncovers problems. It can be tempting to back out of a deal when you see a list of repairs, but that’s not always the best move. Instead, knowing how to negotiate repairs can help you get a fair deal without letting the sale slip away.

Understand What’s Important

Before you start negotiating, take a close look at the inspection report. Focus on repairs that could affect your safety, the home’s structure, or essential systems. These might include:

● Electrical Issues

● Roof Leaks

● Plumbing Problems

Minor cosmetic issues can usually be overlooked. For example, a few scratches on the floor or minor chips in the paint aren’t typically worth asking for repairs. Once you have the inspection report, note the major issues. Make sure you focus on repairs that will cost the most or those that need immediate attention.

Get Repair Estimates

Once you’ve identified the problems, it’s time to get an idea of how much the repairs will cost. Getting estimates from contractors can help you understand the financial side of things. You can also use online tools for rough cost estimates.

Having an idea of the repair costs helps you make realistic requests. For example, if you’re asking the seller to repair a leaking roof, knowing the average cost will make your request more reasonable.

Decide What You Want

When it comes to negotiations, you have a few options. You can:

● Ask the seller to make repairs before closing.

● Request a price reduction so you can handle the repairs yourself.

● Negotiate for a credit at closing to cover repair costs.

If you choose a price reduction, you’ll get cash upfront to take care of repairs. However, if you ask the seller to complete repairs, you’ll have the home ready for move-in without worrying about fixing things.

Be Clear and Professional

When negotiating, always stay professional. Communicate the issues and why they need to be fixed. Share your concerns about safety, function, or the home’s long-term value.

Avoid being too aggressive or demanding. Negotiation is a two-way street, and keeping the conversation respectful will help both sides come to a fair agreement.

Be Willing to Compromise

It’s important to be flexible. The seller may not agree to all your requests. Instead of pushing for every repair on the list, prioritize the most important ones.

If the seller offers a price reduction or other compromises, consider them carefully. It’s about finding a middle ground that works for both parties. The goal is to keep the deal moving forward without letting the little things stand in the way.

Work with the Right Broker A skilled broker will take the lead in handling the tough conversations and navigating the complexities of repairs. With the right broker, you won’t have to worry about handling the negotiation process on your own. They know how to manage these situations smoothly, presenting your requests to the seller.

A real estate broker can also evaluate what’s reasonable to ask for based on the inspection results and local market conditions, guaranteeing that your requests are fair but also in your best interest. With the right broker by your side, you can rest easy knowing that they will advocate for you and make sure that the deal moves forward smoothly and successfully.

Negotiating repairs can be tricky, but with the right broker, it’s much easier. At Kelly Wentworth - Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Northeast Real Estate, we’ll handle the tough conversations for you. Contact us today to get started!