Inspection report is requiring licensed contractors

[Ellie Hanson]

Hi,

We just received the inspection report back on a flip we're selling and the buyers have written into the contract that all work must be performed by licensed and bonded contractors. Even for something as small as putting a strap on the hot water heater and fixing a few cracked siding shingles.  My wife and I are perfectly capable of doing these repairs ourselves which they fully intend on having the inspector re-inspect.  We haven't said yes or no to the inspection list yet so my questions are:

1) are the repairs required to be done by a licensed professional?

2) can we counter back and say "repairs will be done in a professional manner" but not by a licensed, bonded professional unless required by law?  None of the changes are electrical in nature but some are plumbing but I don't think a plumber should be required since its just small leaking faucet type stuff.

3) has anyone ever counter back like that and did it scare the buyers off?  These are first time buyers who seem easily scared.

[Tony Gunter]

How is the market there. Did you have offers lining up. Very tight inventory? Who is in the power position, seller's market or buyer's market. That would be the first thing I would consider if I were in your position. I am like you, if it is work that is not requiring a permit to do, it doesn't need to be done by someone with a license.