How to Use Home Inspection Reports to Negotiate the Price of a Home Hire a professional home inspector to inspect the home. Why pay for a home inspection? A home inspection will help buyers uncover defects in a home before they invest. When you get the inspection report back on a home you're looking to buy, you may be able to use that report to negotiate the price. Steps: 1. Be sure your purchase contract includes an inspection clause that makes your obligation to purchase the home dependent on the results of a professional home inspection performed within a stated period of time (usually 10 to 15 days) during the sales transaction. 2. Schedule the inspection at a time when you can actually go through the home with the inspector so that you will fully understand the findings. 3. Expect the inspector to test the built-in appliances, electrical outlets, windows, heating and cooling systems, alarms, sinks, showers, tubs and toilets. 4. Review the condition of each item listed on the home inspection report; decide if the condition of each item or component is acceptable or unacceptable to you. 5. Compare your original offer to the estimated costs of any repairs or replacements. 6. Present an addendum to the sellers within the contingency period at a reduced price to cover the costs of repairs or replacements or give the sellers the option of getting the work done themselves. Tips: • A thorough home inspection should take at least two hours. • Remember that an inspection is not an appraisal, and market value has nothing to do with the findings of an inspection.