Structural Issues, Pursue Credits or Walk?

[Sean Gimpert]

I found an off-market property and went under contract and recently completed an inspection. We knew there were some cosmetic issues that needed to be addressed but when the inspector went into the crawl space it revealed some structural issues. I copied and pasted the report from the inspector below. My general feeling from the sellers is that they want out of their house and would be willing to work on credits to stick with the deal. The initial numbers I ran did not take into account remedy the crawl space issues so I would need credit on it to move forward. I am just wondering if it is worth the risk or should I cut my losses and walk?


•  Improperly installed columns appeared, either at the floor or at the beam. This may
be a structural risk so further evaluation and correction by a licensed structural
engineer and/or a qualified framing contractor is recommended.

• The column(s) or posts did not appear to be bearing on proper footings. Footings
help to spread the load across the ground and prevent sinking and structural
movement. Recommend the installation of proper footings if undue settlement occurs
and to prevent movement to the house.

• A "Jack Post" or a Temporary-rated post were noted to aid in additional support of
the structure. This is typical in older homes, however in today's construction
standards no multi-piece support column less than 3" in diameter has been certified
for permanent use. This can result in column failure and subsequent structural
movement of the home. Further evaluation and correction by a qualified framing
contractor is recommended.