Once you have accepted an offer, the home inspection is one of the most important steps before closing. It helps the buyer understand the property’s condition and can lead to requests for repairs or credits.
For sellers, this part of the process can feel a little stressful, but it does not have to be. Knowing what to expect and how to respond can help you keep your sale on track and avoid unnecessary delays.
Here is a simple guide to help you handle home inspection requests with confidence.
1. Understand the Purpose of the Inspection
A home inspection is not meant to find reasons to cancel the sale. It is designed to give buyers peace of mind that the home is safe and in good condition.
Most buyers will hire a licensed inspector who examines the structure, systems, and overall safety of the home. This includes the roof, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, foundation, and appliances.
Once the inspection is complete, the buyer’s agent will review the report and send you a list of items they would like to discuss.
2. Stay Calm When You Receive the Report
It is completely normal for an inspection report to include several findings, even for a well-maintained home. Every home has small issues, and most are easy to fix.
Take time to read the report carefully and focus on the key items that could impact safety, function, or financing. These are the issues that buyers usually care most about.
Avoid reacting too quickly or emotionally. Most of the time, buyers simply want reassurance that the home has been well cared for.
3. Review Requests with an Open Mind
After the inspection, buyers often send a repair request or ask for credits toward closing costs instead of repairs.
This is your chance to review what they are asking and decide what feels fair. You can:
Agree to complete certain repairs before closing
Offer a credit to the buyer instead of doing the work
Decline requests that feel unreasonable or unrelated to the inspection
The goal is to find a balance that keeps the deal moving while protecting your bottom line.
If you are unsure how to respond, our team at List With Freedom can help you review the request and understand your options clearly.
4. Focus on Repairs That Matter Most
Not every item on the list needs to be fixed. It is helpful to focus on major safety or structural concerns such as electrical issues, roof leaks, or plumbing problems. These are the kinds of repairs that can affect loan approval or cause a buyer to walk away.
Cosmetic items like paint touch-ups or loose doorknobs are usually not deal breakers and can often be declined politely.
When in doubt, communicate clearly and offer practical solutions that show you are willing to cooperate.
For a deeper look at how inspections affect your sale, check out our guide Why the Buyer’s Inspection Matters in a FSBO Sale
5. Keep Documentation for Everything You Do
If you agree to make repairs, keep detailed records of what was fixed, who did the work, and when it was completed. Receipts and contractor invoices can give buyers confidence and prevent confusion later in the process.
When the repairs are done, take clear photos to show the completed work. Your buyer will appreciate your transparency, and it can help finalize the inspection contingency faster.
6. Communicate Clearly and Professionally
00Good communication is key during this stage. Respond promptly to the buyer’s age0nt, share updates on repair progress, and confirm when everything has been completed.
If you cannot meet a specific repair request, explain your reasoning and offer an alternative. Buyers are often flexible when they see that you are acting in good faith.
At List With Freedom, our licensed team can help ensure your communication stays professional and compliant from start to finish.
Keeping Your Sale on Track
A home inspection does not have to be stressful. It is simply part of the process that helps both sides feel confident about moving forward.
When you stay calm, cooperative, and organized, you can turn inspection requests into opportunities to build trust and keep your closing timeline on track.
At List With Freedom, we are here to guide you through every step of your sale. From listing on the MLS to managing offers and inspections, our team helps sellers stay in control while saving thousands in commission.
With the right mindset and support, you can move through the inspection process smoothly and get one step closer to a successful closing.
Next Steps:
➝ Explore our pricing plans
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