Who Pays for Home Inspections and Repairs: The Buyer or Seller?
Inspections are a key part of nearly every home sale. But who pays for the inspection—and what about repairs? Here’s what FSBO sellers need to know when listing with Brokerless.
🔍 Who Pays for the Home Inspection?
In almost all cases, the buyer pays for their own inspection. This allows the buyer to hire an inspector they trust and review the findings independently. As the seller, you aren’t required to pay for or arrange the buyer’s inspection.
Some sellers may order a pre-listing inspection to uncover issues in advance, but this is optional. Learn more about your duty to disclose latent defects.
🛠️ Who Pays for Repairs?
Repairs after an inspection are negotiable. A buyer may request certain items to be fixed or ask for a credit at closing. As a FSBO seller, you decide whether to agree, offer a credit, or sell the home “as is.”
- ✅ You can agree to repairs before closing
- ✅ You can offer a credit in lieu of repairs
- ✅ You can decline and keep the sale “as is”
The key is communication. Expect direct requests from buyers or their agents—see how buyers contact sellers.
🏆 The FSBO Advantage
Selling FSBO with Brokerless means you stay in control. Unlike a full-service listing agent, you decide how to respond to inspection results and repair requests. This flexibility often saves sellers thousands.
Even with inspections, you’ll avoid the 6% listing commission. See how Brokerless eliminates hidden closing fees.
📅 How Inspections Affect Closing
Inspection outcomes can affect timing and final settlement. Repairs, credits, or re-inspections may extend negotiations. Be sure you understand who pays closing costs so there are no surprises.