Buyers: How to Deal With Home Inspection Issues

When buying a home, the seller should disclose any problems or information that would otherwise make you reconsider purchasing their home. But sometimes these things are only revealed after a home inspection.

Don't let a home inspection discourage you entirely from purchasing a home, though. Our real estate agents have been on both ends of home inspection issues and have a few tips and tricks for helping you work through them with the seller.

• Get It in Writing
  Before you get too far, make sure that your contract has provisions for what happens if something goes awry during the home inspection. In most cases, basic contracts have wording that allows you as the buyer to request or schedule a home inspection within a number of days from the contract being signed. 
  
  Unfortunately, that's where most of it ends and there is very little detail outlining what happens or who is responsible for repairs if something is found to be unsatisfactory. At this point, it's up to you to negotiate with the seller to find a fair and equitable solution, or, better yet, leave this part to your real estate agent to negotiate on your behalf.
  
  
• Know When to Fold 'Em
  The reality of real estate involves a great deal of game theory. In the end, both parties want what's in their best interest, which can lead to some uncomfortable back-and-forth negotiations and even outright cancellations of a contract. As the buyer, as long as you're protected in your contract, then you likely don't have much to worry about.
  
  On the other hand, if there are issues with the inspection, and you can't find a satisfactory resolution, then it may be best to just walk away from the deal. As difficult as this may be and as inconvenient as it can become, there are situations where a seller's unwillingness to address inspection issues simply won't cut it when it comes to buying a home.
  
  
• Keep Calm, Buy On
  Sometimes issues with an inspection really aren't issues at all. A home inspector has a job to do and if they're worth their mettle, they'll do what they're paid to do. An inspector's purpose is to ensure that there are no underlying safety hazards that may compromise the home, lives, or mechanical workings of anything therein.
  
  With that said, most inspectors will find something that isn't perfectly up to snuff but likely isn't a major issue either. If it's your first foray into home buying, red flags on your inspection report may strike a little panic into your heart. What's important is to put everything into perspective and continue working with the seller to remedy any minor problems. Keep your cool, stay calm, and see the process through.
  
  
• Trust Your Agent
  When it comes to inspection issues and especially with written contracts and agreements, trust your agent through the process. There are some things that are just better left to professionals, and your Cressy & Everett agent will have the experience needed to make sure your home-buying venture is as smooth as possible. 

If you're in the market for South Bend homes for sale, then contact us to talk to one of our experienced agents and start shopping today.