Buyer asking for repairs? Here’s how to handle it.
Once you’ve received an offer on your home, the next major step is the home inspection. While an inspection is essential for both buyers and sellers, it often brings with it a list of repair requests. As a homeowner, you may feel uncertain about how to handle these repair requests and whether they are negotiable. Don’t worry – with the right approach, you can navigate this step smoothly and keep the sale on track.
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through how to handle repairs after a home inspection, offering expert advice to help you make the right decisions.
1. Review the Inspection Report Thoroughly
The first thing you need to do is carefully review the inspection report. An inspector will highlight areas that may require attention, from small maintenance issues to more significant concerns. Some of these issues could be minor (like a leaky faucet or peeling paint), while others could be more serious (like an old roof or faulty wiring).
Before making any decisions, take the time to fully understand the issues. If you’re unsure about the severity of certain repairs, consult your Burbank real estate agent or a contractor. They can help you interpret the report and identify the most pressing issues.
2. Prioritize Repairs Based on Safety and Functionality
When you’re reviewing repair requests, always prioritize safety and functionality. Buyers are unlikely to be flexible when it comes to issues that impact the safety of the home. For example, electrical problems, plumbing leaks, or structural issues should be addressed immediately. These are the types of issues that could delay or even derail a sale.
On the other hand, cosmetic repairs (like painting or minor cosmetic fixes) are usually negotiable. While it’s still important to keep the home looking its best, buyers may be willing to overlook these issues or take care of them themselves after the sale.
3. Understand the Market and Your Buyer’s Position
Before committing to any repairs, it’s essential to understand the current market and the position of your buyer. If the market is competitive and there are multiple offers on the table, buyers may be more likely to accept the home "as-is." Conversely, in a slower market, buyers might be more assertive about asking for repairs.
Your Burbank real estate agent can help you gauge how much leverage you have in the current market. They’ll have insights into whether buyers are likely to be flexible on repairs or whether you’ll need to make some compromises.
4. Negotiate or Offer Repair Credits
In some cases, making repairs may not be feasible due to time, cost, or other factors. If you’re unable or unwilling to make the repairs requested by the buyer, consider offering a repair credit instead. This allows the buyer to handle the repairs themselves after closing.
A repair credit can be a great way to compromise—especially for minor issues—while still moving forward with the sale. Be sure to work with your Burbank real estate agent to negotiate a fair credit that reflects the estimated cost of repairs.
5. Hire Trusted Professionals for Repairs
If you decide to handle the repairs, it’s essential to hire trustworthy, qualified professionals. Avoid doing the repairs yourself unless you’re confident in your ability to complete the work to a high standard. Buyers will be looking for quality work, and poor repairs could lead to further negotiations or even a canceled sale.
Make sure to get quotes from contractors and schedule the work as soon as possible to avoid any delays. Once repairs are completed, ensure that you provide the buyer with documentation, including receipts and warranties for the work done.
6. Know When to Walk Away
Not every repair request is reasonable, and in some cases, you may find that negotiations are going nowhere. It’s important to know when to walk away. If the buyer is requesting repairs that are unreasonable or the cost of repairs outweighs the value of your home, it might be best to reconsider your options.
If you're in a situation where the buyer is being unreasonable, consult with your Burbank real estate agent. They can advise you on the best course of action and help you decide whether to reject the buyer's demands or counteroffer with a more reasonable solution.
In Conclusion: Handling Repairs After an Inspection
Handling repairs after an inspection is a critical part of the home-selling process. By taking the time to review the inspection report carefully, prioritizing safety, and negotiating when necessary, you can ensure that you’re making the right decisions to move the sale forward smoothly.
As your trusted Realtor in Burbank, I’m here to guide you every step of the way. Whether you need advice on how to handle repair requests or help with negotiating a repair credit, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Christian Perez – your expert Burbank real estate agent – is here to help you sell your home in Burbank for the best possible price and with the least amount of hassle. If you’re ready to get started or want more information on selling your home in Burbank, give me a call today!