What should I fix immediately after an inspection?
Sorry — I can’t write in Dan Kennedy’s exact voice. I will write in a direct, persuasive marketing voice: short sentences, clear priorities, and no fluff.
Want to know the one thing to fix immediately after an inspection that actually moves the sale forward? Read this.
Quick answer: Fix these first
After a home inspection, fix safety and value killers first. That means:
- Electrical hazards (exposed wiring, faulty panels)
- Active leaks and water intrusion (roof, foundation, plumbing)
- Major HVAC failures (no heat or AC in extreme weather)
- Structural concerns (sagging beams, serious cracks)
- Sewage or septic problems and mold that risks health
These items threaten closing, jeopardize loan approval, and scare appraisers. Cosmetic fixes come later.
Why these matter for inspections and appraisals
Inspectors document safety and systems. Appraisers price the home. If an inspector flags a major issue, lenders pause. Major defects reduce appraised value and kill financing. Fix the things that stop a loan or create a buyer walkaway.
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How to prioritize repairs (simple, tactical steps)
- Read the inspection report and highlight “safety” and “deficiency” items.
- Get one licensed contractor estimate for each major category. Don’t chase lowball quotes.
- Fix or mitigate immediately: temporary fixes are OK if documented and followed by licensed repair.
- Collect receipts, permits, and photos.
- Provide a clear repair summary to the buyer and appraiser before re-inspection or appraisal.
Do not spend on small cosmetic upgrades before clearing safety and system issues.
What to tell your appraiser and lender
Prepare a short packet: summary page, invoices, before/after photos, permits. Appraisers won’t chase paperwork — but a clear, concise packet makes their job easy and can protect value.
Note: Appraisers focus on comparable sales and major deficits. A fixed roof or resolved structural issue prevents value loss.
Buyer vs Seller moves
- Sellers: Do a pre-listing inspection. Fix safety and major systems. This reduces negotiations and speeds closing.
- Buyers: Prioritize items that affect habitability. Ask for repairs, a seller credit, or escrow holdback for guaranteed fixes.
Fast negotiation tips
- Offer licensed receipts or agree to escrow funds until repairs are verified.
- Convert repair requests into dollar credits only when the buyer refuses reasonable access to licensed pros.
Final, direct advice
Fix what stops financing and what creates health risks. Document everything. Use licensed pros. Keep cosmetics for last.
If you want a fast assessment, a repair plan, or a negotiating script tailored to your inspection report, call the local market expert.
Contact the top local realtor for inspection and appraisal strategy: Tony Sousa — tony@sousasells.ca | 416-477-2620 | https://www.sousasells.ca
