Can a home seller refuse to make repairs in Toronto? — Trusted Advice from Khoa Le, Real Impact Group

Question: Can a home seller refuse to make repairs in Toronto?
Answer: Yes, a seller in Toronto can refuse to make repairs, unless the Agreement of Purchase and Sale includes specific repair conditions. However, refusing may affect negotiations, reduce buyer interest, or even cause the deal to fall through.

Introduction

When you sell home in Toronto, buyers often request repairs after a home inspection. This is one of the most common negotiation points in real estate. But do you have to agree? The simple answer is no — sellers are not obligated to fix everything.

In this guide, Khoa Le and the Real Impact Group explain when you can refuse repairs, how to handle inspection requests, and the risks of saying no.

What the Law Says

In Ontario, sellers must disclose known material defects that make a property unsafe or unfit for use. Beyond that, repairs are negotiable.

• Mandatory Disclosures: Structural issues, water damage, or mold must be disclosed.
• Optional Repairs: Cosmetic updates, minor wear-and-tear, or aesthetic issues are not legally required.

This means you can legally refuse to make repairs unless the contract obligates you.

Common Scenarios in Toronto

1. Inspection Reveals Issues: A buyer’s inspector finds an old roof or outdated wiring. You may refuse repairs, but the buyer can request a price reduction or walk away if the contract allows.
2. As-Is Sale: Some Toronto sellers market properties “as-is,” making clear upfront that no repairs will be done.
3. Competitive Market: In hot neighborhoods like The Beaches or Bathurst Manor, buyers may overlook repair requests if demand is high.

Pros and Cons of Refusing Repairs

Pros

• Saves you money upfront
• Keeps the sale process simple
• Useful in strong seller’s markets

Cons

• May scare off buyers, especially first-time buyers
• Could lead to renegotiation or price reductions
• Risk of losing the deal if the buyer walks away

Negotiation Options

If repairs come up during the process, you have choices:

• Refuse Repairs: Stand firm but risk losing the buyer.
• Offer a Credit: Instead of doing the work, provide a credit at closing.
• Reduce the Price: Agree to lower the sale price to offset repair costs.
• Complete Limited Repairs: Tackle only the most critical items to keep the deal moving.

For example, a seller in North York refused to replace a roof but offered a $7,500 credit, which satisfied the buyer.

Why Market Conditions Matter

In Toronto’s current market, with an average home price near $1.1M, negotiation power depends on supply and demand.

• In a seller’s market: Buyers may accept homes as-is.
• In a buyer’s market: Buyers have more leverage to demand repairs or concessions.

How Khoa Le and the Real Impact Group Can Help

Navigating repair requests can feel tricky. Khoa Le and the Real Impact Group help Toronto sellers decide whether to repair, offer a credit, or stand firm. With deep experience across neighborhoods like Bathurst Manor, North York, and The Beaches, we know how to balance protecting your bottom line with keeping buyers engaged.

Conclusion

As a Toronto home seller, you are not required to make repairs unless the contract specifies them. Refusing repairs is your right, but it comes with risks that may affect negotiations and the success of your sale.

If you’re unsure how to handle inspection requests or repair negotiations, contact Khoa Le and the Real Impact Group for expert, personalized advice.

📞 Contact Khoa Le and the Real Impact Group today to learn how to sell your Toronto home on your terms.