How to Negotiate Repairs After Inspection in Spokane: Seller’s Strategy
- Nick Briggs
- 3 days ago
- 4 min read
How do Spokane home sellers negotiate repairs after an inspection? It’s a common and crucial question. If you're preparing to sell your home, understanding the repair negotiation process can help protect your bottom line and keep your sale on track. I’m a trusted Spokane real estate agent, and that’s exactly why I wrote this guide—to help local sellers confidently handle post-inspection repairs.
What Happens After a Home Inspection in Spokane?
Once a buyer completes their home inspection, they typically receive a detailed report outlining everything from structural issues to minor cosmetic concerns. In Spokane, this leads to the Buyer's Inspection Addendum, where the buyer formally requests repairs, credits, or adjustments.
At this point, sellers must respond within a timeframe—often 3 to 5 days—with acceptance, a counteroffer, or a refusal. Having a plan in place and the right Realtor to guide you can make this process smooth and strategic.
🔗 What to Expect During a Spokane Home Inspection
What Can Buyers Ask For in Spokane? (What Can Sellers Decline?)
Buyers in Spokane often focus on functional and safety-related issues. Think:
Roofing concerns
Plumbing or electrical systems
HVAC performance
Water damage or mold
Foundation cracks
Cosmetic concerns like old paint or worn carpets are often negotiable and not considered deal-breakers.
💡 Important: While buyers can ask for anything, Spokane sellers are not legally obligated to agree. You can decline, negotiate, or offer alternatives—but always be clear and in writing.🚨 Disclaimer: This is not legal advice. For specific legal questions, consult a licensed real estate attorney.
How to Negotiate Repairs After Inspection in Spokane
1. Review the Inspection Report With Your Realtor
Your first move is to sit down with your Spokane Realtor (like myself) to review the report. We’ll categorize repairs into:
Must-do (safety, system failures)
Negotiable (older appliances, deferred maintenance)
Ignore (cosmetic or unrealistic asks)
2. Prioritize High-Impact, Low-Cost Fixes
Certain repairs offer a high return for minimal investment—like fixing minor leaks, securing loose fixtures, or servicing your HVAC. These small fixes can make a big difference in keeping the buyer engaged.
In Spokane neighborhoods like South Hill or Indian Trail, buyers often expect well-maintained essentials over luxury finishes.
3. Use Estimates or Credits Strategically
Sometimes it’s easier to offer a repair credit than schedule a repair. This keeps you in control of your timeline and avoids post-repair disputes.
Example: If a Spokane buyer requests a roof repair, offering a $2,500 credit toward closing costs may be more efficient than coordinating a contractor on a deadline.
4. Lean on Your Realtor During the Negotiation
With experience negotiating dozens of Spokane real estate deals, I know what’s typical and what’s overreaching. I’ll help you counter with confidence and facts—like comparative market conditions or professional estimates.
🗣️ Example Script: "We appreciate the inspection feedback. We're comfortable addressing the plumbing issue but prefer to offer a credit in lieu of the electrical update."
5. Be Prepared to Say No—But Know When It’s Worth It
Sometimes the buyer’s requests are unreasonable or incompatible with your goals. In that case, you may need to walk away—especially if you have backup interest.
In fast-moving Spokane markets like Kendall Yards or Shadle Park, multiple buyers often mean better leverage for you.
Pro Tips for Spokane Sellers Navigating Repair Talks
✔️ Use “as-is” language strategically in your listing—but be ready for inspections to test that.
✔️ Pre-inspections are a smart move for Spokane sellers who want to identify and address concerns early.
✔️ Put everything in writing. Verbal agreements won’t hold up during closing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I negotiate repairs after inspection in Spokane as a seller? Work closely with a Spokane real estate agent who understands local market standards. Your agent can help you evaluate requests, respond strategically, and protect your bottom line.
What repairs are non-negotiable in Spokane real estate deals? While no repair is legally mandatory, buyers usually focus on roof issues, HVAC, safety hazards, and structural problems. Sellers should expect negotiation on these areas.
Can I offer a credit instead of fixing things in Spokane? Yes. Offering a repair credit is common in Spokane and allows the buyer to handle repairs post-closing. It's often faster and more appealing for both parties.
Do I have to fix everything the inspector finds? No. Sellers in Spokane can choose to repair, offer credit, or decline. The key is strategic communication and clear documentation.
Conclusion
Successfully handling how to negotiate repairs after inspection in Spokane is all about strategy, communication, and understanding what buyers value in this market. With the right Realtor by your side, you'll be prepared to navigate post-inspection hurdles and keep your deal intact.
📞 Ready to talk strategy? Let’s connect today and make your Spokane home sale a success.
📌 Related Blog: How To Sell a House in Spokane
About Me
My name is Nick Briggs
Being born and raised in Spokane I grew up knowing what a special place this city is, and it was my dream to help others create a life in this wonderful community by guiding them in real estate. I spent many years in the customer service industry, the experience of listening and communication showed me how much I truly loved helping people. I attended Gonzaga University and earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration to add to my knowledge of guiding, managing, negotiating, and listening to individuals, helping them achieve their real estate goals.
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