What Happens After the Home Inspection? Next Steps for Buyers and Sellers

The home inspection is complete — now what? Whether you're buying or selling a home, the inspection is a major milestone, but it’s not the end of the journey. Understanding what happens next can make the process much smoother and help you avoid common pitfalls.

Here’s a breakdown of the next steps for both buyers and sellers after the home inspection:

For Buyers:

1. Review the Inspection Report Carefully

Once you receive the inspection report, take time to read through it carefully. A good inspector will point out everything from minor maintenance issues to major concerns. Remember: No home is perfect, even new construction!

2. Prioritize the Issues

Not every item in the report needs to be addressed immediately. Focus on major safety hazards, structural issues, roofing, plumbing, electrical systems, and HVAC problems. Cosmetic concerns can often be handled later.

3. Decide on Your Next Move

After reviewing the report, you have a few options:

• Request Repairs: Ask the seller to fix certain issues before closing.

• Request Credits: Negotiate a credit toward your closing costs instead of repairs.

• Accept As-Is: Move forward without asking for changes.

• Walk Away: If serious problems are found and an agreement can't be reached, your contract may allow you to back out.

  
  

4. Communicate with Your Realtor

Your Realtor will help you draft a formal repair request or amendment based on the inspection findings. It’s important to act quickly — inspection periods are usually time-sensitive!

For Sellers:

1. Review Buyer Requests

Once the buyer sends repair or credit requests, review them carefully. You’ll need to decide whether to agree, counteroffer, or decline.

2. Negotiate in Good Faith

Most buyers aren't looking for perfection — they simply want to know they’re making a smart investment. Being reasonable with repairs can keep the sale moving forward and prevent a deal from falling apart.

3. Hire Licensed Professionals

If you agree to complete repairs, make sure they're done by licensed contractors when necessary. Buyers often ask for receipts or permits to confirm the work was done correctly.

4. Prepare for Re-Inspection (If Needed)

In some cases, the buyer may request a re-inspection to confirm repairs were completed properly. Keeping everything professional and documented can help ensure a smooth final walkthrough.

Final Steps Before Closing

For both parties, the last stage is the final walkthrough. The buyer typically does this just before closing to verify that the property’s condition hasn’t changed and that agreed-upon repairs were made.

Once everything checks out, it’s time to head to the closing table!

The Bottom Line:

A home inspection doesn’t have to derail a transaction — in fact, it’s an opportunity for buyers and sellers to move forward with confidence. When handled professionally and with good communication, it sets the stage for a successful closing for everyone.

Need a Reliable, Thorough Home Inspection?

At Summit Property Inspections, we’re here to help make every transaction as smooth and stress-free as possible.

📞 Call or text (727) 599-1175 or schedule your inspection online today!