Short answerAsk for repairs when your lender requires them or safety demands it before move in. Ask for a credit when you want to choose the contractor and the work can wait, keeping in mind lenders cap seller credits. Ask for a lower price when the issue affects value or a credit would exceed the cap. Check with your lender first.
| Choice | Good for you when | Downside |
|---|---|---|
| Seller repairs | Lender required or needed before move in | You do not pick the contractor |
| Closing cost credit | You want control of the work | Capped by the lender; does not fix required repairs |
| Lower price | Item affects value; credits capped | Lowers your loan, saves little cash at closing |
The seller's view: repair, credit, or price for sellers.
Frequently asked questions
How much can a seller credit me?
It depends on your loan type and down payment. Your lender confirms the limit.
Can I combine options?
Yes. Many deals mix a repair for required items with a credit for the rest.
Keep reading
Looking at a house and not sure what you are getting into?
Ask for a free Before You Offer review. Send me the listing. I look over the photos, the seller's disclosure, and recent sales, then flag likely condition issues and planning cost ranges before you write an offer.
Request a Before You Offer reviewOr call or text (812) 525-5489, or email [email protected].
The Before You Offer review is a REALTOR® and contractor review of the listing, not a home inspection. It is for buyers who are not already working with an agent. If you have an agent, please bring these questions to your agent.
Written by John Long, REALTOR®, 1 Percent Lists Indiana Real Estate. Working contractor who has priced hundreds of home inspection repair requests. Former labor relations negotiator for a major manufacturer and U.S. Coast Guard veteran.
John Long, REALTOR® · 1 Percent Lists Indiana Real Estate · (812) 525-5489 · yourpropertynegotiator.com
This page is general information, not a substitute for a professional home inspection, and not legal, tax, insurance, or lending advice. Ask a real estate attorney about contracts and disclosure, a CPA about taxes, your lender about loan rules, and a licensed inspector or tradesperson about your house. Nothing here guarantees a sale price, net proceeds, repair cost, payment, timeline, appraisal, inspection result, or loan approval. Cost figures are planning estimates, not bids. I own Wardmark Property Operations LLC, a contracting company. You are always free to use any contractor you choose.