How Should I Handle Home Inspection Negotiations on Long Island?

How should I handle home inspection negotiations on Long Island?
Home inspections often uncover issues, and buyers may request repairs, credits, or price reductions. For Long Island sellers, handling these negotiations carefully can keep the deal on track without giving up more than necessary. Eric Berman REALTOR helps sellers navigate inspection negotiations with strategies that balance fairness and protect value.

Common Inspection Requests

Buyers may ask for:

  • Repairs for safety issues (electrical, plumbing, roofing)

  • Credits toward closing costs to cover repairs

  • Replacement of major systems (HVAC, water heater)

  • Pest treatment or remediation

Not every request is reasonable, and sellers aren’t obligated to agree to everything.

Typical Seller Options

1. Make the Repairs

Hire licensed professionals to complete the requested work before closing.

2. Offer a Credit

Provide a financial credit at closing so the buyer can handle repairs.

3. Reduce the Price

Lower the sale price to reflect repair costs.

4. Decline the Request

If the issues are minor or cosmetic, you may choose not to address them.

How to Decide What’s Reasonable

  • Health and Safety Issues: Often worth addressing to keep the deal alive.

  • Code or Structural Problems: These may be flagged by lenders, making resolution necessary.

  • Cosmetic Issues: Sellers can usually push back on requests for paint, landscaping, or décor.

  • Market Conditions: In a seller’s market, buyers may accept more “as-is” conditions. In a buyer’s market, concessions may be needed.

Tips for Successful Negotiations

  • Stay Calm: Inspection reports can feel overwhelming, but most issues are common in older Long Island homes.

  • Prioritize Repairs: Focus on major items that could delay closing.

  • Use Estimates: Get contractor quotes to counter unrealistic buyer requests.

  • Leverage Multiple Offers: If you have backup buyers, you have more leverage in negotiations.

How Eric Berman REALTOR Helps

Eric provides:

  • Guidance on which inspection items to address

  • Contractor referrals for quick estimates

  • Negotiation strategies to minimize concessions

  • Clear communication with attorneys and buyers’ agents

Final Thoughts

Inspection negotiations don’t have to derail your Long Island home sale. With the right approach, you can resolve issues fairly while protecting your net proceeds.

Worried about home inspection negotiations?

Contact Eric Berman REALTOR today for expert strategies and support tailored to the Long Island market.

Meta Description:
How should you handle home inspection negotiations on Long Island? Eric Berman REALTOR explains common requests, seller options, and strategies to protect value.