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How to Stay Calm After a Delaware Home Inspection Report

By
Real Estate Agent with RE/MAX Associates RS - 0019092

 

Getting a home inspection report in Delaware doesn’t have to be scary. With the right approach — and a strong local REALTOR® by your side — you can turn that report into an opportunity to negotiate smartly and protect your investment.

 

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Know What Delaware Inspectors Often Flag

  • Foundation & structural movement: Clay‑rich soils inland and moisture shifts can cause wall cracks or misaligned doors/windows. 

  • Roof, attic, and moisture problems: Especially in coastal or humid zones, leaks, flashings, and ventilation issues are common. 

  • HVAC, plumbing, electrical wear: Systems may age faster in Delaware’s seasonal extremes.

  • Radon & moisture intrusion: Basements or crawlspaces can accumulate water or radon gas — a concern under Delaware’s building context. 

Knowing these patterns will help you anticipate likely report items and not be shocked when they appear.

 

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Interpreting the Report: What to Focus On

  1. Separate must‑fix vs. nice‑to‑fix
    Ask: Does this issue affect safety, structure or code compliance? Or is it cosmetic (e.g. peeling paint)? 

  2. Get local repair estimates
    Use Delaware‑based contractors to get realistic pricing — that grounds your negotiation in local cost reality.

  3. Ask for credit or price adjustment instead of full repair
    Many sellers prefer giving a credit at closing rather than managing repairs themselves.

  4. Negotiate strategically, not emotionally
    Let your agent lead with professional language. Skip demanding every defect. Stick to significant items.

  5. Use the inspection contingency wisely
    In Delaware contracts, you typically have a window to back out if you can’t agree on major items. Don’t miss the deadline.

  6. Confirm repairs in the final walkthrough
    If the seller agrees to fixes, walk through and make sure they’re properly completed before closing.

 

 

Partner with a Delaware‑Savvy Agent

You want an agent who understands local home inspection norms, Delaware repair costs, and contract nuances in New Castle County

That person can help you:

 

 

 

 

 
 
 

Christopher Pataki

Realtor
RE/MAX Associates - Hockessin

Phone: (302) 562-0628
Office: (302) 234-3800
Email: patakiremax@gmail.com
License: RS-0019092, Delaware
Click for MY REVIEWS

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Comments(3)

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Michael Jacobs
Pasadena, CA
Pasadena And Southern California 818.516.4393

Hello Christopher - the home inspection period can be stressful.  For buyers as well as sellers.  Hopefully realistic expectations are part of any discussion in real estate.  Emphasis on the term and concept.   

Oct 08, 2025 04:16 AM
Christopher Pataki

unfortunately, this is coming from recent experience where i am having a tough time with a current inspection.  

Oct 08, 2025 04:19 AM
Michael Jacobs

Christopher Pataki - sorry to hear that.  Such times are not easy in the moment.  

Oct 08, 2025 04:28 AM
Roy Kelley
Retired - Gaithersburg, MD

Good Wednesday morning, Christopher.

This is great information to share with home sellers.

Have a productive autumn.

Oct 08, 2025 04:45 AM
Wayne Martin
Wayne M Martin - Oswego, IL
Real Estate Broker - Retired

Good morning Christopher. Your number one focus point separating "must fix" from "nice to fix" can make or break a deal. It's all in the presentation. Some inspectors do it well and some do not. Enjoy your day.

Oct 08, 2025 05:38 AM
Christopher Pataki

some do not is right.  one reason that i attend as many home inspections as possible - to curb surprises and get first hand knowledge of issues and problems.  then interpreting a written report is much less a problem...........chris

Oct 08, 2025 06:06 AM