Why the inspection is your best leverage
An inspection report is the most objective document in any home purchase. It turns vague concerns into specific, costed issues — and that gives buyers a clear basis to renegotiate the price, ask for repairs or walk away.
The red flags to take seriously
Foundation cracks wider than a quarter inch or that run diagonally
A roof within five years of the end of its lifespan
Outdated or aluminium wiring and overloaded panels
Signs of water intrusion in basements or crawl spaces
Ageing HVAC systems with no service history
Evidence of pests or wood rot in structural timber
Unpermitted additions or conversions
Not every flag is a deal-breaker. A dated furnace is a known cost; an undisclosed structural problem is an unknown one. The goal is to separate the two.
Turning findings into a better deal
Get written quotes from licensed contractors for any major item, then ask for a price reduction or seller credit rather than repairs — you keep control over who does the work and how well it is done.
