Question 1

What items should I never include in a repair request?

Accepted Answer

Avoid including purely cosmetic items such as paint touch-ups, minor carpet wear, or landscaping preferences. Items disclosed by the seller before the inspection are also typically not negotiable unless the condition is significantly worse than disclosed. Focus your repair request on safety hazards, structural concerns, and major system deficiencies.

Question 2

How do I handle a seller who refuses all repair requests?

Accepted Answer

If the seller refuses all repair requests, review the contract terms with your client and determine whether the inspection findings justify terminating the agreement. In some cases, offering a compromise such as a credit or home warranty can break the impasse. Always maintain professional communication and document all exchanges.

Question 3

Can inspection negotiations reopen after an agreement is reached?

Accepted Answer

Generally, once both parties sign a repair agreement or amendment, the negotiation is closed for those items. However, if the re-inspection reveals that repairs were not completed properly or new issues are discovered, additional negotiations may be warranted depending on your contract terms and state regulations.

Inspection Negotiation Guide for Real Estate Agents