Yes — in fact, the home inspection is one of the most common times to negotiate in real estate.
After an inspection, buyers can:
- Request repairs from the seller
- Ask for credits toward closing costs
- Negotiate a reduced purchase price
- Or, in some cases, walk away if the issues are too big
In South Carolina, inspection negotiations are standard, especially around Lake Marion, where older homes, waterfront properties, and rural septic systems often come with surprises.
What Happens After the Inspection?
Here’s the typical process:
- Inspection Ordered – The buyer hires a licensed inspector (cost: $350–$600).
- Report Issued – The inspector provides a detailed report of findings.
- Repair Addendum – The buyer submits requests for repairs, credits, or price adjustments.
- Negotiation Phase – Seller reviews and either agrees, counters, or rejects.
- Resolution – Both parties sign off on the agreed changes.
Example: A buyer discovered electrical issues and dock repairs during inspection. Instead of fixing, the seller offered a $7,500 credit at closing. Both sides moved forward without delays.
Common Issues That Lead to Negotiation
Not every inspection leads to major negotiations, but some issues almost always trigger discussions:
- Roof damage or leaks
- HVAC or plumbing problems
- Electrical safety issues
- Foundation cracks or settling
- Septic system failures (common in rural SC)
- Dock or seawall repairs (important on Lake Marion)
- Termite damage or moisture problems
Minor cosmetic issues usually don’t carry much weight. Focus on safety, structural integrity, and big-ticket repairs.
Buyer Strategies for Negotiating After Inspection
If you’re the buyer, here’s how to approach negotiations:
- Prioritize Major Issues – Ask for big-ticket or safety repairs, not chipped paint.
- Get Repair Quotes – Have contractors estimate costs to strengthen your case.
3. Request Credits Instead of Repairs – Sellers may prefer to give a credit so you can choose your own contractors.
4. Be Reasonable – Don’t nickel-and-dime over small fixes; focus on what matters.
5. Have a Walk-Away Point – If the issues are too extensive, it’s okay to back out under your contingency.
Example: A buyer requested $12,000 in repairs after inspection. The seller countered with a $6,000 credit. They settled in the middle, and the deal closed.
Seller Strategies for Handling Inspection Requests
For sellers, inspections can feel stressful — but they don’t have to derail your sale.
- Disclose Honestly Upfront – Surprises kill deals; disclose known issues early.
- Get a Pre-Inspection – Fixing problems before listing can reduce negotiation leverage for buyers.
- Offer Credits Instead of Repairs – Easier than coordinating work before closing.
- Focus on Safety Issues – Address items that could prevent financing (roof, electrical, septic).
- Stay Flexible – Meeting buyers halfway often keeps the deal alive.
Example: A waterfront seller agreed to replace a faulty HVAC but declined cosmetic updates. The buyers accepted and closed smoothly.
What Sellers Are NOT Required to Fix
Sellers in South Carolina are not required to fix everything. Typically, they are only expected to handle:
- Safety hazards
- Code violations
- Issues affecting loan approval (like roof leaks or missing railings)
Cosmetic updates, worn carpets, or outdated appliances are not mandatory repair items. Buyers must decide if those are deal breakers.
How Carolina Properties Helps You Negotiate Post-Inspection
At Carolina Properties at Lake Marion, we’ve helped countless buyers and sellers navigate tricky post-inspection negotiations. We:
- Review the inspection report in detail
- Prioritize repairs that matter most
- Draft clear repair or credit requests
- Advise sellers on which items to address and which to push back on
- Keep negotiations professional and focused on closing the deal
With our guidance, you won’t lose a sale (or overpay) because of inspection surprises.
FAQ: Negotiating After Inspection
Q: Can a buyer walk away after inspection?
Yes — if the contract includes an inspection contingency.
Q: What if the seller refuses all repairs?
The buyer can accept the home as-is or terminate the contract.
Q: Can a buyer renegotiate price instead of repairs?
Yes — price reductions are a common solution.
Q: Do sellers have to fix everything inspectors find?
No. Only items that affect financing or safety are usually required.
Q: Is it better to ask for repairs or credits?
Credits are often better for buyers since they control how the work gets done.
Q: Can negotiations happen twice?
Usually only once, but if additional issues are discovered (like during a re-inspection), it may reopen.
Work With Carolina Properties for Smooth Inspection Negotiations
Inspection time doesn’t have to mean conflict. With the right agent on your side, it’s just another step toward closing.
At Carolina Properties at Lake Marion, we:
- Prepare buyers for likely inspection issues in waterfront and rural homes
- Help sellers price realistically and avoid surprise negotiations
- Connect clients with trusted local contractors for quotes and repairs
- Negotiate calmly and professionally so everyone feels they won
Buying or selling a home around Lake Marion? Let us take the stress out of the inspection phase.
Call Carolina Properties Today to navigate your next inspection with confidence.