I was recently accused of killing a deal, the home smelled so bad the buyers agent couldnt stay inside during the inspection but its some how my fault the deal fell through.
There are times it will happen, however there are other times where you can do some things to prevent it.
The best thing that can be done is to let everyone know what to expect. Let the buyer know that the inspector will find some issues, maks a list of common inspection issues found in your area, (click the link an example for you to use to get started.)
See of the buyer knows that it is not uncommon for an inspector to fing a few broken roof tiles, they are less likely to freak out when the inspector comes down off the ladder and says "Better call a roofer, we got some broken tiles up there". As an agent you don't need to down play the issue, just do a little prep and let them know what to expect.
On the flip side, listing agents are great at getting homes ready to show but what about ready for the inspection. Most inspectors now provide a report summary and the shorter that summary is the better this house will look to a buyer. So make another list, How to prepare your home for the inspection (Click that link for a sample)
As an agent helping your client find the right inspector can give you a migraine. Do you refer the one that has a rep as a deal killer? Do you refer the guy that shows up unshaven in a rusted out pick up with a magnet on the side that you suspect is holding the door shut?
If you refer the inspector that is not through you might get sued, if you refer the one that is too picky you might have to show another 300 homes this week.
I suggest finding an inspector that is competent, educated, experienced, with a easygoing personality. You know the type. I am talking about the inspector that can be honest but not scare the pants off of the buyer.
I also suggest you find 3 of these inspectors, and don't just give their cards to your clients, show them a copy of each inspectors report.
Imagine the inspector misses something ot more likely the client can't make heads or tails of the report. Now the buyer comes to you and says "it is your fault!
Would you rather say, well I gave you 3 cards and let you choose, or, I gave you cards, brochures and reports so you could make an informed decision?
For more tips on how to hire an inspector check out my site.
And remember like an old home inspector friend of mine says: "I never killed a deal but I have seen a lot of houses commit sucide"
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