One of the most crucial steps in the home selling process is the home inspection. Once a buyer makes an offer and it’s accepted, they usually hire a professional to inspect your property. What happens next can greatly impact the sale.

As a seller, it’s important to know what to expect during a home inspection, how to handle buyer repair requests, and how to navigate negotiations smartly to keep the deal moving forward.

🔍 What Is a Home Inspection?

A home inspection is a thorough examination of your property, usually conducted within the first week after accepting a buyer’s offer. The goal is to assess the condition of the home—inside and out—including the:

  • Roof and foundation
  • Plumbing and electrical systems
  • Heating and cooling units
  • Windows, doors, and insulation
  • Appliances, attic, and basement

The inspector provides a detailed report to the buyer, highlighting any issues—big or small. This report often forms the basis for repair requests or price renegotiations.

🧾 What Happens After the Home Inspection?

After reviewing the inspection report, the buyer has several options:

  • Move forward with the purchase as-is
  • Ask for specific repairs
  • Request a credit or price reduction
  • Walk away from the deal (depending on the contract)

This is where your negotiating skills—or your real estate agent’s—really come into play.

🔧 How to Handle Buyer Repair Requests

Buyers typically ask for repairs based on safety issues, code violations, or major damage. As a seller, you’re not obligated to fix everything, but it’s often smart to negotiate reasonably.

Here’s how to respond effectively:

✅ 1. Review the Report Objectively

Don’t panic. Not all findings are serious. Review the report with your real estate agent to understand which items are reasonable and which may be exaggerated.

🔧 2. Offer Repairs or Credits

If you agree to fix something, make sure it’s done professionally and documented. Alternatively, offering a repair credit at closing allows the buyer to handle it themselves.

💬 3. Negotiate, Don’t Argue

Approach repair negotiations like a business deal. Focus on major issues like plumbing leaks, roof damage, or electrical hazards—not cosmetic fixes like chipped paint.

💡 Tips to Make the Process Smoother

  • Get a pre-listing inspection before you sell to catch issues early.
  • Be upfront about known problems—it builds trust.
  • Prioritize safety-related repairs if you want to close fast.
  • Always keep receipts and proof of completed work.

🛑 What Not to Do

  • Don’t take repair requests personally.
  • Don’t ignore the buyer’s concerns—they may walk away.
  • Don’t DIY major repairs unless you’re licensed.

A little flexibility can go a long way in keeping the deal alive and closing smoothly.

✅ Final Thoughts

Handling home inspections and buyer repair requests is a normal part of the selling journey. With the right approach, you can resolve issues calmly, avoid deal breakers, and keep your transaction on track.

Remember: Buyers want peace of mind. If you show them that the home has been well cared for—or that you’re willing to work with them—they’ll be more confident in moving forward.