Do you utilize the services of a Home Inspector? Do you value their opinion or fear the report? I suppose it depends on what side of the proverbial fence you are on. Recently I closed a deal for a buyer, of course we did the home inspection on the property and the buyers were pleased with the results. After sending a copy of the report to the listing agent, I was a little surprised to hear their reaction. They tell me "if you would like the name of a home inspector we use, let us know. This home inspector has good reports and he ‘NEVER RUINS OUR DEALS'." "Umm...okay" I reply.

So I've been pondering this ever since. After getting past the fact that agents should not supply a client with a vendor (protocol is to supply a list of recommendations and allow the client to choose their own company). As an agent, I always recommend the use of an inspector. I look forward to their report and I expect to know EVERYTHING they find. I do not want the inspector to "overlook" items that could potentially "ruin my deal". I write my deals contingent upon the approval of the inspection. If my deal is going to go south because of something wrong with the home, I'd like to know now rather than after the family is occupying the home and feeling buyers remorse; or worse, stuck with repair bills to correct a situation that could have been resolved prior to purchase. I do counsel my buyers and explain that the home inspector will usually have a "list" of problems and the list can feel overwhelming; however, most is usually typical wear and tear.

I'm truly confused as to why an agent would prefer to use an Inspector that will offer a "good" report only to keep a deal together. My opinion is these agents are only contributing to the overall bad reputation that agents are stuck with. Why not look out for the best interest of our buyers, these days buyers are few and far between. To these listing agents that fear the "bad" report, why not have the homeowner get an inspection done upon taking the listing? This way, you will be aware of any issues that could potentially ruin your paycheck. Thank you to the Home Inspectors that stick to the rules and offer a true and accurate report.

If you are interested in learning more about Paula Smith and the St. George, Utah area visit www.StGeorgeUTproperty.com