Dealing with Repairs while Under Contract on a Home

When I first meet with my buyer clients, I'm often asked about repairs. Mostly: "What if we go under contract on a home and we find things are broken... or costly items are old and need to be replaced soon?"

Great question! It may vary state-to-state, but in North Carolina, the seller is not required to fix anything after you are under contract. When you sign the Offer to Purchase, you are essentially saying that you accept the house as it is, flaws and all. But don't panic! That's the legal part of it; more times than not, the seller is willing to fix major concerns if you ask. The key is to be selective and strategic about what repairs you ask for.

This is where having a knowledgable Realtor is helpful. My repair process includes arranging appointments with Inspectors and Contractors so that they can give me estimates on all of the repairs. Then we can ask the seller to either replace the old water heater or give us the equivalent price in closing costs so that the buyer can fix it themselves later. 

Being selective with repair requests may mean accepting the bedroom door that doesn't latch completely so that you can ask for the seller to replace the cracked window. Ask yourself which items are absolutely necessary and which can be repaired in your first year of ownership?

When sellers receive a long list of requests, they are often overwhelmed (and understandably!) but when they receive a concise list with estimates and Contractor recommendations, they are much more likely to say yes to your repair requests.

Buying or selling a home? I work in the greater Charlotte, NC area and would love to help you! Not in Charlotte? Let me connect you with a great Realtor in your area!