Repair Negotiations
If you are buying an older home the inspector will inform you that the house does not meet current building codes. Of course it doesn't, it was built when these codes were inacted. New building codes are written every day, rendering even a new home out of code. The point being; how much should the seller be required to do to bring their home "up to code?" As far as inspections on a newer home,5 years or newer, you should expect to fine the house in good condition. Know that most buyers do not do inspections on new construction and some items might have been inferior fromt the beginning and they never knew.
First, I strongly recommend that all sellers have their house inspected before putting it on the market. Then they would know what is wrong with their home and have the option of repairing/replacing items. If they choose to not repair an item then the buyer is aware of it and can make informed decisions about their asking price.
It would be good if the buyer would focus their attention on what I call "the biggies" - HVAC, electrical, plumbing, roof, foundation issues. Arguing over small handyman issues does not make sense. If you really want the house is it worth walking away over $1000 worth of repairs? By the time you find another house, pay option fee again, pay for another inspection you would have covered the repair.
The sooner you realize that nothing stays the same and as a homeowner you will have maintenance items in need of repair throughout your ownership the better homeowner you will be.
Mary Beth Harrison, www.dallastexasrealestateblog.com
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Whether you are buying or selling a home in Dallas, or you are relocating to the Dallas area, the The Harrison Group is here to help.
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