Published: August 5, 2024 | Closer Look Home Inspectors · InterNACHI Certified · Mankato, MN

What Happens If Your Home Inspection Finds Problems

By Closer Look Home Inspectors | (507) 721-3820

Your inspection report lists several issues. Before panicking, understand that finding problems is completely normal. Every home has findings regardless of age. What matters is knowing your options and making informed decisions.

Every Home Has Issues

In our years inspecting homes across Blue Earth County, we have never found a perfect home. Even new construction has items needing attention. The inspection identifies safety hazards, major defects, and conditions affecting your wellbeing and the home's value.

Understanding Severity

Safety Hazards

Issues endangering your family: exposed wiring, missing GFCI, carbon monoxide risks from cracked heat exchangers, unstable decks, and fire hazards from improper dryer venting.

Major Defects

Significant-cost issues: foundation problems, roof failure, HVAC replacement, major plumbing failures, and elevated radon above 4.0 pCi/L (common in Mankato).

Maintenance Items

Normal upkeep: caulking, grading improvements, gutter cleaning, HVAC filter replacement and servicing.

Your Four Options

Option 1: Proceed As-Is

Accept the property with minor findings and handle maintenance after closing.

Option 2: Negotiate Repairs

Request the seller fix specific issues. Common Mankato requests: radon mitigation, electrical panel upgrades, roof repairs, sewer line repairs.

Option 3: Price Reduction or Credit

Seller provides closing credit or reduces price. You hire your own contractors and control repair quality after closing.

Option 4: Walk Away

Your inspection contingency lets you terminate and recover earnest money if problems exceed your tolerance.

What Sellers Typically Agree To

• Safety-related repairs (electrical, CO risks, structural)
• Issues affecting all potential buyers, not just preferences
• Problems they were unaware of before listing
• Radon mitigation when levels exceed 4.0 pCi/L

Working With Your Agent

Share the report with your agent. Focus requests on 3-5 significant items rather than a long list. An experienced Mankato agent knows what is reasonable based on current market conditions.

Our Closer Look team is always available to discuss findings. We also offer thermal imaging for deeper investigation of suspected problems.

Contact Closer Look Home Inspectors at (507) 721-3820 or get your instant quote below.