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What to Fix from Home Inspection?

By
Real Estate Agent with Keller Williams Realty

After home inspection, settling on what needs to be repair usually is the last major hurdle for the transaction. Bypassing a home inspection not recommended in most situations. This is the best time prior to closing to discover flaws in the property that could become expensive to correct after becoming the owner the property. Sometimes buyers are uncertain how to move forward on home repair request. This is the time real estate professionals can be helpful by advising their client what should be fixed. Sellers will not fix and should not fix everything that is on the inspection report. Cosmetic issues and wear tear items discovered by inspector should not be mandatory to fix. Items that should consider fixing include structural defects, building code violations and safety issues. Settling repair issues normally happens in one of two ways: seller makes cash settlement to buyer at closing and the buyer is responsible for making repairs after closing, or the seller agrees to make physical repairs prior to closing. Recommend buyer settle on a cash settlement and make their own repairs except if lender required repairs. Using this this approach the buyer will be more satisfied. Sometimes lenders require certain repairs done to qualify for the loan. This occurs when there are structural defects, building code violations, or safety issues discovered during inspection. Items that will get the closest attention from inspectors are septic system, HVAC, roof, electrical and plumbing. Problems with any of these systems may require a fix or credit from the seller. As a seller, before you agree to home repairs, make sure all repair requests are in writing and fully understand your obligations. Normally this done as an amendment to the contract.         

Kristin Johnston - REALTOR®
RE/MAX Platinum - Waukesha, WI
Giving Back With Each Home Sold!

Great information.   Thanks for sharing and enjoy your day!

May 17, 2022 07:13 AM