13. Is it worth it to concede to repair requests?
It can often be easier to concede to repair requests if the seller wants everything to go through without delay. But it really depends on the contract and the types of repairs requested. If it’s something like installing a banister on a staircase, that takes virtually no time and money to do compared to something like re-drilling a well.
However, if you’re selling a house as-is, any repair requests can void the contract. Vander Heyden recently ran into that issue, where the buyer’s agent came back from the inspection with a list of repairs. She told him the contract specifically said any repair requests would void the deal, and he backpedaled.
You might also consider how long the house has been on the market and how much interest it has. If it’s been the average amount of days with nominal interest, then you’ll likely want to try getting the major things like electrical and plumbing fixed. But if the home has only been on the market for a few days and there are already five offers, you’ve got a bit more leeway to negotiate.
14. What’s a pre-listing inspection and should you get one?
A pre-listing inspection happens before a house goes on the market. It’s not mandatory, but it’s often recommended by professionals. The goal is to let the seller know what’s wrong with the house and then have a chance to fix it before listing the home, so there aren’t any surprises during the actual inspection.
Lesh does caution, though, that a pre-listing inspection won’t be the final word on necessary repairs. Things can change quickly and unexpectedly between the pre-listing inspection and the buyer’s inspection. So while it’s a good idea to get one done, just remember that you still may run into repairs you weren’t prepared to deal with.
15. Should I work with a real estate agent during my inspection negotiations?
There are benefits to working with a real estate agent who’s negotiated through hundreds of home inspection results and knows how to work out a deal that will lead to the best outcome for you and your priorities.
In addition, an agent can help connect you with professionals you may need during the home inspection and repair process, and also advise you on what needs to happen in order to get the house ready to sell.
“I’m always looking for common things home inspectors find,” Vander Heyden shares. “That doesn’t mean I’m a home inspector; it just means I’ve transacted so many homes that I know what they’re looking for. I’ll point it out to the homeowner and say, ‘Hey, let’s take care of this.’”
Navigate home inspection challenges for a successful sale
A home inspection is more than just a procedural step. The goal is to ensure the property is safe and sound, not just for the sake of the sale, but for the future homeowner’s peace of mind.
As you wrap up this important stage in selling your home, keep in mind that your approach to the inspection findings can significantly impact the sale. Whether it’s considering repair negotiations, understanding when to stand firm on your decisions, or deciding whether to hire a home repair contractor, each choice plays a role in steering your home sale toward a successful conclusion.
Partnering with a seasoned real estate agent can further streamline this process, ensuring that you navigate the home inspection with expertise and confidence.
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