Buyer agents, I don't know about you but as a buyer agent I try to make sure that the buyer is protected and taken care of. Home inspections are definitely one of those areas where we need to guide them to a qualified home inspector. At the same time, we need to be careful not to only give them one option and pick for them. Here are a few tips that we can help us narrow down the choices for them and in turn giving them 2 to 3 qualified inspectors to choose from. Very simple stuff and just figured sometimes the simple things we forget about. Let's go help those buyers. And by the way, according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), in 2009, a record 47% of homes sold were purchased by first-time buyers. WOW:
1. Inspect the Inspector. Only hire a home inspector with an excellent reputation and credentials. Ask how long the company has been in business, ask about specific formal training and ongoing education the inspector has and verify the inspector carries professional liability insurance also known as "Errors & Omissions" (E&O). If the company doesn't carry this insurance, it could indicate a poor track record or lack of experience.
2. Ask for a sample of a report. The credentials of the inspection company and the quality of the final inspection report will be important. A poorly prepared report without pictures or clear, concise details addressing all the various systems and accessible elements of the home is less likely to be taken seriously by a home seller.
3. Go along on the inspection. Ask the inspection company if they encourage buyers to tag along on the inspection. If the inspector discourages you from going along and asking questions, find another inspector. A home inspection is not simply a laundry list of what is wrong with the home. In addition to documenting issues and needed repairs that may exist, a professional home inspector will also show the new buyer how to operate the various systems in the home and provide tips on improving energy efficiency and maintaining the home in general. And being present during the inspection will make the final written report that much more meaningful.
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