What Happens After a Home Inspection: A Comprehensive Guide

You've just received your home inspection report. Now what? Should you ask the seller for repairs? Is the house still worth buying? Many Lincoln home buyers want to know what happens after a home inspection. Luckily, with the right information, you can decide whether to move forward, negotiate, or walk away from a house-selling deal.

What's in the Home Inspection Report?

After your home inspection, you'll receive a detailed report of the inspector's findings. This report is your guide to understanding the condition of your potential new home in the Lincoln area. 

It typically covers the main components of the house: the structure, roof, electrical system, plumbing, heating and cooling, and more. Each section highlights any problems the inspector finds, from minor fixes to bigger concerns.

What's Inside the Report?

The report uses clear language to describe the house's condition, but you might see some technical terms. Don't worry if you don't understand everything right away. Ask your inspector or real estate agent to explain anything unclear. They want you to understand the report fully.

Besides the written descriptions, your report likely includes photos of any problem areas. These photos help you see the issues and how serious they are. Pay close attention to any suggestions for further evaluation or repairs. These often point to potential problems that need a specialist's expertise.

What Are Your Options After a Home Inspection?

If the inspection report shows only minor problems, like a loose doorknob or a leaky faucet, you're in luck. These are easy fixes that don't require negotiation. You can probably go ahead and buy the house without any worries, ready to enjoy your new Lincoln home.

Bigger Problems Might Pop Up

Sometimes, the inspection uncovers major issues, such as a leaky roof or outdated electrical wiring. These are serious problems that need your attention. Now you have a few options. You can ask the seller to fix the problems, negotiate a lower price so you can fix them yourself, or if the problems are too big, walk away from the deal.

Weigh Your Options

In most cases, the inspection report will show a mix of small and big issues. This is where you need to prioritize. Decide which problems are deal-breakers and which ones you're okay with fixing yourself later. Negotiation is often the next step.

How To Negotiate Repairs After a Home Inspection

If your inspection uncovers repairs, it's time to talk to the seller. You and your real estate agent will create a list of repairs you want done. This list usually focuses on safety problems, structural damage, or anything that could cost you a lot of money later.

Your agent sends this list to the seller's agent. The seller has a few choices: they can agree to do the repairs, offer a different solution, or say no to fixing anything.

You have options besides repairs. You can ask for a lower price on the house or for money to cover the repairs yourself. If the problems are small, you might even decide to fix them after you move in.

What Happens After Negotiations?

If the seller agrees to fix the problems, check their work before you finalize the purchase. Walk through the house one last time to make sure everything is in good shape. Once you're satisfied, you can close on the house and start enjoying your new Lincoln home.

Sometimes, it's best to walk away, especially if the problems are too big or the seller won't budge. Don't worry, your contract likely has a clause that lets you back out because of the inspection results. You should get your earnest money deposit back, and you can start looking for another house.

Use Your Inspection Report After Closing

Even after you move in, your inspection report is still helpful. It can guide you on what needs fixing and how to maintain your home to prevent future problems. Remember, your home is an investment, and taking care of it can save you money.

Work With a Trusted Home Inspector

In the Lincoln area, Murray Inspection Services is your partner for a smooth home-buying experience. We have years of experience and pay attention to every detail. We don't just point out problems; we explain them. Moreover, we tell you how they might affect you and what your options are.

A thorough home inspection is a smart investment. It can save you time and resources. Choose a trustworthy inspector like Murray Inspection Services to guide you through the process of home buying.

Call Murray for a Thorough Home Inspection

When you know what to expect after a home inspection, you can approach the process with confidence, not anxiety. With a clear understanding of your options and the support of an experienced inspector, you can rest assured that your dream home won't turn into a nightmare.

Contact Murray Inspections to book your home inspection. We'll guide you through from the initial inspection to what happens after a home inspection. Your dream home in Lincoln is within reach, let us help you get there.