I have read a few blogs recently regarding the sometimes strenuous relationshp that exists between the realtor and the home inspector.  Realtors describing the characteristics of a home inspector as the perverbial "deal killer" and inspectors indicating being asked by shady realtors to overlook certain problems in any particular home just to "make the sale".

Realtors who ask you to hide or overlook certain things should most definately cause red flags to go up - not only in the mind of the home inspector, but the buyer/seller as well.  Personally, I will definately run from doing business with such realtors - they do NOT have the clients best interest at heart.  That being said, I think there are a lot of inspectors who are in fact "deal killers" and a lot of the time it is the home inspector that causes the problems. 

Far to many inspectors have no people skills whatsoever.  Nor do they know how to present their findings in such a way as to remain true to the ethical standards of the industry, and at the same time not killing the deal for the realtor.  Sometimes, in the best interest of the client, the deal MUST be killed!  However, as inspectors when we find questionable items during our inspection we need to be able to communicate those findings to the client in such a way so that if at all possible, we don't kill the deal. 

Understanding and communicating the difference between what needs to be repaired verses what is just general maintenance will go a long way in calming the realtor questions about you being a deal killer, as well as the client's fears about being sucked into buying a death trap! 

For example...while inspecting the roof, we find several valleys are in very bad shape.  A lot of inspectors will report to the client that the roof is shot and needs to be replaced.  A statement like this will very likely kill the deal!  Not to mention give the realtor fits!  We definately don't cover anything up, but I would investigate a little more....perhaps all that is needed is a "roof tuneup".  You know, if the surrounding shingles are fine, just repair/replace the valleys.  Presenting some sort of solution forces the client to see the big picture of what "could be" - it gives them hope and that makes them happy...and if their happy, Mr/Mrs Realtor is happy as well.

yes, the relationship between realtor and home inspector is definately a delicate one, but one that must be maintained nonetheless.

Calvin Bailey
A Closer Look Home Inspections
cbailey1@on.nachi.org
http://www.inspectorpages.com/cbailey1