There seems to be a general misconception among  home buyers and a few agents.  Just scroll through the internet or phone book, call some inspection firms, and choose the one with the lowest fee.  How could one inspector charge $329.00 and another $195.00 for the same inspection request?  After all, it is the same job, they must all perform the required tasks to completely inspect this huge investment, right?  Well, the answer is absolutely NO, there are many differences that may not be apparent until it is too late for the buyer.

1. Has the inspector received quality formal training, and does he or she continue their education annualy?
2. Did the inspector work with an experienced home inspection professional prior to starting their own business?
3. Membership in a respected national home inspection organization?
4. Complete insurance coverage including; errors & omissions, liability and bonded?
5. Three hours inspection time on an average home?
6. Carry a 28' ladder to reach most roof lines for the very important roof evaluation?
7. Willing to enter most crawl spaces and attics?
8. Remove the electrical panel cover and check for proper wiring within?
9. Remove the covers from furnaces to provide the best possible evaluation of this potential carbon monoxide producer?
10. Produce a computer based report including descriptive digital images available the same day?
11. Encourage the clients to stay with the inspector during the complete inspection?
12. Always provide wonderful follow-up service, for the client and realtor?

All of the information detailed above is my profile, I never approach any inspection differently. I am sure many realtors have witnessed the 30 minute inspection with the 2 page written report.  Too many "inspectors" book 4 or more inspections daily, carry no insurance and really could care less about the home buyer.  Yes, there are a lot of quality inspectors available to provide good inspections.  As you search for the best possible inspector, consider all of the points above as a guide, and please do not book the cheapest guy in town!  It is worth spending a little more now, than to be surprised later when undiscovered defects may considerably impact your budget.  Many defects found during a quality home inspection may be covered by the sellers prior to settlement, but certainly not after. 

I really like my job, receiving many compliments really does mean a lot to me and encourages me to always do my best on every home inspection!