The home inspection is done — and now you have a report filled with notes, photos, and maybe a few surprises. Don’t worry — this is where smart negotiation begins. Most homes, especially older ones in Cincinnati’s classic neighborhoods, will have something that needs attention. The goal isn’t perfection — it’s fairness . Start by focusing on health and safety issues first — things like electrical hazards, roof leaks, foundation problems, or water intrusion. These are legiti

After your offer is accepted — congratulations! — your lender will order a home appraisal to confirm the property’s fair market value. This step protects both you and your bank, ensuring you’re not overpaying for the home. An appraisal is performed by a licensed professional who compares your property to similar recent sales in the area. They consider factors like square footage, location, upgrades, and condition. In Cincinnati, appraisers also weigh neighborhood characteri