Mastering Repair Negotiations in Las Vegas Real Estate: A Buyer and Seller’s Guide
- Arlie Janet Bagongon
- Sep 23
- 3 min read
Written by Kimberly Smith - Your trusted Las Vegas Real Estate Queen

For many buyers and sellers, inspection day feels like the finish line. But in reality, it’s just the beginning of one of the most critical steps in the Las Vegas real estate process: repair negotiations.
Handled well, this step builds trust and keeps the deal moving smoothly. Handled poorly, it can derail the entire transaction. Here’s what every smart buyer and seller in Las Vegas needs to know about navigating post-inspection repairs with confidence.
1. What Happens After the Inspection Report
When the inspection report is delivered, the contract usually enters what’s called the Due Diligence Period. In Nevada, this gives buyers the right to:
Request repairs or financial credits
Accept the property as-is
Or, in some cases, cancel the contract if no agreement can be reached
Typical steps in repair negotiations:
📑 Buyers submit repair requests or credit requests in writing
🛠️ Sellers review and respond — they may agree, counter, or decline
🤝 Both parties negotiate until they reach a resolution
💡 Real Estate Queen Tip: Focus on major safety issues and big-ticket systems (electrical, HVAC, roof, plumbing). Buyers rarely win credits for cosmetic issues like chipped paint.
2. Who Pays for Repairs in Las Vegas Real Estate?
The truth: repairs are always negotiable. There is no set rule about who pays — it depends on the agreement between buyer and seller.
Buyers can request repairs or credits.
Sellers can agree, counter, or refuse.
Big systems (like a failing air conditioner in the Vegas summer) often demand attention.
Cosmetic items rarely shift negotiations.
⏱️ Timeline Note: Nevada real estate contracts typically allow buyers a set number of days (often 10 calendar days) to submit repair requests. Sellers then have a specific timeframe to respond, which keeps negotiations on track.
3. Repairs vs. Credits: Which Is Smarter?
Not all fixes need to be done before closing. In fact, many Las Vegas transactions resolve through credits rather than repairs.
Repairs: Provide immediate solutions but can delay closing if contractors are backed up.
Credits: Keep the closing timeline intact and give buyers the freedom to choose their own contractors and finishes.
💡 Real Estate Queen Tip: Credits are often the smarter move — sellers save time, and buyers gain control.
4. When Repairs Become Deal Breakers
Most repairs are negotiable, but some can threaten the deal entirely:
🚨 Major safety hazards (electrical issues, foundation cracks, fire hazards)🚨 Mold, asbestos, or significant water damage🚨 Big-ticket systems near failure (roof, HVAC, plumbing)🚨 A refusal by either party to negotiate in good faith
Even then, experienced agents often save deals by structuring credits instead of requiring last-minute repairs.
5. How Kimberly Smith Protects Her Clients in Negotiations
Repair negotiations can be one of the most emotionally charged aspects of the real estate process. Buyers don’t want hidden costs, and sellers don’t want to feel nickel-and-dimed.
That’s where my 5 Star Approach makes the difference:
Quality advice based on local market knowledge
Understanding of both buyer and seller priorities
Excellence in communication and documentation
Efficiency in keeping deadlines on track
No Nonsense strategies that focus on closing, not conflict
Final Thoughts
Repair negotiations don’t have to feel like a tug-of-war. With the right strategy, they can be a fair, transparent process that protects both sides and keeps your Las Vegas deal alive.
If you’re buying or selling in Las Vegas, don’t leave inspection negotiations to chance. With my guidance, you’ll know exactly what to expect, when deadlines matter, and how to handle every request with clarity and confidence.
👑 Kimberly Smith is a top Las Vegas Realtor known for her sharp market insight, strategic approach, and commitment to helping clients move smart—whether buying, selling, or just exploring what’s next. She’s not just a local expert—she’s The Real Estate Queen of Las Vegas.
📞 Connect with Kimberly:📍 Serving Greater Las Vegas | 🏡 Luxury + Residential
📲 702-706-5885
📱 Follow on Instagram: @realestatequeenoflasvegas
Comments