June 2, 2025: Navigating Home Inspection Results: What Kansas City Buyers Need to Know
Imagine this: you fall in love with a charming old house. The floors creak just right, the light hits the vintage windows perfectly—and then the inspection reveals the upstairs toilet drains straight into the crawl space. Suddenly, that “vintage charm” feels more like you need to suit up in a hazmat suit.
Welcome to the thrilling (and sometimes cringeworthy) world of home inspections.
This stage of the home-buying process is essential because it protects you from surprise science experiments lurking behind the walls of your dream home. So, let’s break down what to expect after your Kansas City home inspection and how to handle those results like a pro.
Inspections Aren’t Pass or Fail
First, here’s a truth bomb: no home—not even a brand-new build—gets a perfect score from an inspector. Home inspections are meant to inform you, not give the house a gold star. Inspectors note issues, big and small, from minor cosmetic quirks to serious safety concerns. Builders typically address warranty or code-related issues only, while older homes may bring a full list of what we’ll politely call “character traits.”
Your job? Decide which issues you can live with and which are dealbreakers.
What Happens After the Inspection?
Once your inspection is done, it’s decision time. You’ll use something called an inspection notice to formally tell the seller how you want to proceed.
✅ Found termites? Even if it’s just one ambitious little bug, you need to disclose it.
✅ Happy with the home as-is? Sign the notice, send it to the listing agent, and keep things moving forward.
✅ Want to cancel or renegotiate? Here’s where things get spicy. You’ll submit the inspection notice along with the full inspection report to back up your concerns.
Important: If you submitted an “in its present condition” addendum with your offer, you may have limited your right to cancel or renegotiate. Check with your real estate agent to understand what’s on the table.
The Negotiation Window
If you’re renegotiating, the clock starts the moment that inspection notice hits the seller’s inbox. Typically, both sides have five days (but always check your contract) to come to a resolution. Think of it as a fast-track marriage counseling session for the contract—you’re both invested, just ironing out the rough spots before closing.
Focus on the Big Stuff
Pro tip: Don’t sweat the small stuff. A loose outlet cover or a dent in the drywall (that suspiciously looks like someone lost a wrestling match with a Roomba) probably isn’t worth dragging the deal through the mud. Focus on the big-ticket items:
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Roof
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Foundation
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Sewer line
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HVAC system
These are the issues that impact safety, functionality, and your future bank account.
Your Options for Resolution
If serious repairs are needed, you have a few paths:
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Renegotiate the price to offset your future repair costs.
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Ask the seller to contribute toward closing costs to free up some cash for you.
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Request repairs or replacements be completed before closing, based on the inspector’s recommendations.
The goal? Protect your investment without blowing up the deal over every cracked tile.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, most Kansas City sellers want the same thing you do: to get the deal done and move on. When both sides stay fair and reasonable, this phase usually goes smoothly.
If you’re buying a home and want Kansas City’s highest-rated real estate team on your side, reach out to Nelson Home Group. We’ve helped more Kansas Citians than anyone—and we’d love to help you next.
Ready to make your homeownership dream happen without surprise plumbing disasters? Contact Nelson Home Group today and let’s get you across the finish line.