How to Read a Home Inspection Report Without Freaking Out

🔎 How to Read a Home Inspection Report Without Freaking Out

You found a great house, made a solid offer, and—boom—it got accepted.

🎉 High fives all around…
Until that home inspection report drops into your inbox.

Suddenly it’s 47 pages long, and words like “double-tapped breaker”, “moisture intrusion”, and “grading slope” are popping off the page like red flags.

But here’s the truth:

Every home has issues. Even brand-new ones.

As your REALTOR®, my job is to help you interpret the report, prioritize the real concerns, and negotiate the right way—without losing sleep over a crooked outlet.

🛠️ 1. The Report is a Tool, Not a Scorecard

A home inspection report isn’t a pass/fail exam. It’s more like a user manual that highlights:

Safety issues
Structural concerns
Repair needs
Deferred maintenance
FYIs for future upkeep

Don’t expect a spotless report. Expect useful insight.

In Central IL, many homes are 30+ years old—so things like aging HVACs, original windows, or hairline foundation cracks aren’t shocking. It’s all about context.

🚨 2. Focus on Health, Safety & Structural

The big three to pay attention to:

Roof leaks or damage
Electrical/fire hazards
Plumbing or water issues (especially in basements)

These are the kinds of issues we may go back to the seller about—or negotiate for a credit or repair before closing.

Minor stuff like a loose cabinet hinge or an over-ambitious squirrel on the roof? Not dealbreakers.

📋 3. You Don’t Have to Fix Everything

Sellers aren’t obligated to fix everything—and you don’t have to ask for everything either.

We’ll look at:

What truly impacts safety or function
What could affect your future resale
What repairs you’re comfortable handling after closing

This isn’t about nickel-and-diming a seller over cosmetic stuff. It’s about smart, fair negotiating.

🤝 4. The Seller May Offer a Credit Instead

Sometimes sellers don’t want to coordinate repairs. That’s OK.

They might offer you a:

Price reduction
Closing cost credit
Home warranty for peace of mind

This can be a win-win—you get the cash and control to fix things your way after closing.

🧠 5. Let Me Be Your Translator

Don’t try to DIY your way through a home inspection report. That’s like googling symptoms and thinking you have 12 diseases.

As your agent, I’ll:
✅ Read the report with you
✅ Explain what’s normal for the age and area
✅ Help you decide what’s worth negotiating
✅ Connect you with local contractors if needed

Remember: knowledge is power—but panic is optional.

Let’s Keep It Moving

An inspection report is just one step on the way to homeownership—not a roadblock.

Let me help you stay calm, ask the right questions, and keep your deal moving toward the finish line.

📞 309-200-5480
🌐 CallDuvall.com

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