Yeah, seller credits can be tricky. Had something similar happen with electrical issues—seller gave us a credit based on their handyman's quick estimate. When our electrician came in, it turned out to be way more complicated (and expensive). Learned real quick that it's always worth getting your own trusted pro to check things out. Credits are great, but only if you know exactly what you're dealing with...otherwise they can leave you short.
"Credits are great, but only if you know exactly what you're dealing with...otherwise they can leave you short."
Yeah, that's the tricky part—knowing exactly what you're dealing with. I've had seller credits offered for roof repairs before, and it turned out the "quick fix" estimate was nowhere near reality once my roofer got up there. Makes me wonder, how often do sellers genuinely underestimate repair costs versus intentionally lowballing to close the deal? I mean, I like to give people the benefit of the doubt, but sometimes it feels a bit too convenient. Has anyone else run into situations where the seller's estimate was actually spot-on, or is it pretty much always safer to assume you'll need more cash than they're offering?
"Makes me wonder, how often do sellers genuinely underestimate repair costs versus intentionally lowballing to close the deal?"
Yeah, I've been there—once bought a house where the seller gave me a credit for "minor plumbing repairs." Turned out "minor" meant replacing half the pipes in the basement. 😂 Honestly tho, I don't think most sellers intentionally lowball; a lot of times they're just as clueless as we are. But yeah... always safer to budget extra cash for those "quick fixes." Lesson learned the hard way.
Totally feel your pain on that one. From my experience:
- Most sellers genuinely underestimate repairs—they're not pros, just homeowners.
- But yeah, "minor" can mean anything from a leaky faucet to a full-on plumbing nightmare...
- Always smart to pad your repair budget. Better safe than sorry, right?
Couldn't agree more about padding the repair budget—it's saved me more than once. Another thing I'd add is to never underestimate the value of a thorough inspection. I've had sellers genuinely unaware of issues like hidden mold or outdated wiring. They're not intentionally misleading, just genuinely unaware. Spending a bit extra upfront on a good inspector can save you from some nasty surprises later... learned that one the hard way myself.