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The ups and downs of inspections.

Last week I did an inspection for a person that found their dream home and had been so excited that this was the one. A house in their budget that suited all their needs.

As I was inspecting and explaining the issues as we walked the client said that the repairs needed were far over the budget they had.

I was feeling terrible about bursting the bubble and apologized for all information that led to the cancellation of the contract.

Now, I'm thinking so long to this client and the realtor for referrals and think.... I've done my job to the level that needed to be done.

The client says to me at the end after my 20th apology that I just saved them a huge headache and they would me calling me for the next one.

The very next week I get the call..... they have found a beautiful house ready to live in without much repair needed and they are very pleased. Ended up in a better area for their needs

Everything works out for the best. And some of the best deals you make are the ones you walk away from.

Posted by Rick Harrington Specialist--Infrared Residential on 08/04/2008 09:52 PM

Comments (15)

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15 Comments on The ups and downs of inspections.

AUG

2008

Rick~ You are so right about saying some of the best deals we make are the one's we walk away from!

Rick

Inspection plays a big role in the real estate profession. The inspections help to put the buyers at easy regarding the condition of the home, and it helps to protect the real estate professional from potential law suites

Good luck and success

Lou Ludwig

You are doing the right thing, being thorough and honest. Well done! I laways deal with people in this business the way I would want to be dealt with.

Way to go!!!

You are so right.....do unto others!!!

Have a great week.

Rick.....run don't walk and you definately did the right thing. congratuations.

Great work! The truth is a Realtor doesn't mind when an inspector comes up with problems on the resport. They just need to be the truth and REAL VALID problems. As a Realtor, the only time I have an issue is when an inspector makes comments about home that are proven to be untrue or when he doesn't find something he should have. Thank you for being honest and doing your job. ...too bad you don't work in TX! It is hard to find a good inspector. My best house inspector...the only one I had used for the past 6 years died last Christmas. He had cancer and didn't tell anyone. I was really upset because I would have been there for him! Keep up the good work!

I would like to applaud you for your honesty! Job well done!!!!!!!

Raylene,

Sorry for your loss.

That is why it is important to maintain a positive attitude on a day to day basis. Just in case it's the last time you see that person.

I agree with all. I'd rather have a satisfied and happy client than have them buy a house that doesn't suit them. I'd rather take more time and find one that does.

Regards,

Lloyd Nichols

AUG

2008

After all Rick, that is what they hire us for... the truth. Good job. Glad you got the repeat business. I have that happen quite often. Had one client for 4 inspections before they finally found the right one. Keep the faith.

AUG

2008

Rick,

You did what your hired to do. Be the best inspector you can be and report the condition of the home A to Z. Any less and your not doing your job. It's sad to see good people loose their dream however maybe it wasn't meant to be. You just never know. If your referral is anything like Raylene or any other realtor on this thread then they know what type of inspector you really are and will use you every time. If your referral chooses not to use you because they feel you killed their deal then thier not worth your time in the first place. I wouldn't work for anyone who isn't looking out for their clients best interest.

Bill

No matter whose feelings you think your hurting you still have to do your job. Sometimes it isn't pleasant (I've been there), know how you feel.

AUG

2008

Rick--You absolutely did the right thing. When you are out on an inspection you often have to go with your "gut" not your "heart". --Gary

Thanks for all the great support as I believe I did the right thing but thought I was hurting his feelings. He is now in contract with a new house and knows everything was meant to be as it is.

Some more up sides of inspecting. I found a situation that I could not walk away from.

This person was getting an indoor air quality test to help with a reverse mortgage. The situation is that there is no way this person and the helper could get this house passable to the mortgage company by themselves in time to save the house.

I have organized a cleanup/repair party on August 24th to get this done. There are a few costs that we hope to get covered to make this work but it will happen.

I've created fliers to put out at the neighborhood so that we can get enough muscle to get this done. It's mainly cleaning and clearing. But we need roof repair, trim painted and repaired and new garage doors on. An AC unit is being purchased and some great guys are installing for free. (home inspectors that are AC qualified) Another inspector donated a used sectional couch as the one has to be removed.

I just couldn't walk away knowing what I had just found out.

Rick,

Way to go. Stepping up to the plate and helping out someone in need. Same to the other inspectors and all that helps you out.

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