This is a GREAT question, and a lot of it will depend on the repairs themselves and also your financial situation. We ALWAYS recommend getting any repairs that affect the safety of the homes occupants repaired BEFORE you move in, so normally this would be the sellers’ responsibility. These would include things like:
- Smoke, carbon monoxide and radon detectors
- Gas leaks
- Electrical faults or issues – especially with hot panels or incorrect wiring
- Broken or missing door and window locks
- Faulty garage door sensors
Essentially anything that could cause a safety or health issue. Remember that when you write a repair amendment to have the seller fix anything, always state “receipts to be provided” and also “work to be performed only by a contractor licensed to perform these specific repairs.”
Sometimes, however, you find larger problems that don’t necessarily pose a risk but that could make life very uncomfortable for you if they were to fail – think HVAC, water heater etc.
If an item is at the end of its serviceable life however, are you going to repair it or replace it with a new model? Personally we recommend taking a credit (price reduction, closing cost assistance increase) and then upgrading the faulty item to one of your choosing after you move in.
Just put that money towards the upgraded system and reap the benefits of a more efficient and longer lasting home.