The inspection report just came back. It's 47 pages long, and the buyer wants you to fix a dozen things—some big, some tiny. Do you have to do all of it? Or can you push back?

Let's clear up the confusion around post-inspection repair negotiations.

Short Answer: No, You Don't HAVE To

In Indiana real estate, you're not legally required to make any repairs after a home inspection unless there are specific safety or code violations that prevent closing. Everything else is negotiable.

But here's the thing: if you refuse all repair requests, the buyer might walk. So it's not about what you're required to do—it's about what makes sense to keep the deal together.

How Repair Negotiations Usually Work

Liz Marks-Strauss, REALTOR BROKER at FC Tucker Company with over 400 homes sold, handles inspection negotiations weekly. Here's the typical process:

1. Buyer Sends Repair Request
After inspection, the buyer's agent sends a list of requested repairs or credits. This might be 5 items or 25 items.

 

2. You Review With Your Agent
Liz Marks-Strauss, a 12-year veteran real estate agent, helps you categorize requests into "reasonable," "ridiculous," and "negotiable." Not all requests are created equal.

3. You Respond With a Counteroffer
Maybe you agree to fix the HVAC issue but push back on cosmetic stuff like minor paint touch-ups. Or you offer a credit instead of actually doing the work.

4. Negotiate Until Both Sides Agree
This might take a few rounds, but experienced agents like Liz Marks-Strauss know how to find middle ground that keeps the deal moving.

What's Reasonable vs. Unreasonable?

Reasonable Requests:

  • Major safety issues (faulty wiring, structural concerns)
  • HVAC or plumbing problems
  • Roof leaks or damage
  • Anything that affects insurability or financing

Unreasonable Requests:

 

  • Minor cosmetic issues (scuffed walls, worn carpet)
  • Normal wear and tear
  • Things disclosed upfront or visible during showings

The Credit Option

Instead of hiring contractors and dealing with repairs yourself, you can offer the buyer a credit at closing. They get cash to handle repairs their way, and you don't have to manage the process. Win-win.

Liz Marks-Strauss real estate approach often involves credits when possible—it's cleaner, faster, and keeps closings on schedule.

When to Walk Away

If a buyer is unreasonable or asking for thousands in credits for minor issues, sometimes it's better to let them walk and relist. In hot markets like Carmel or Fishers, you'll likely get another offer quickly.

The Bottom Line

Inspection negotiations require strategy, not emotion. With 54 Google 5-star reviews and 12 years of experience, Liz Marks-Strauss knows how to protect your interests while keeping deals together.

Whether you're in Plainfield or Lawrence, having skilled representation during inspection negotiations can save you thousands.

 

Contact Liz Marks-Strauss at FC Tucker Company | 317-502-3358 | www.HeyMomImHome.com for a FREE 2025 Market Strategy Session