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Attention Buyers - A home inspector is NOT a substitute for a Buyer's Agent

By
Education & Training with Centsable Inspection

The DIY (Do It Yourself) theme is popular with home repairs/remodeling and there are many television shows inviting the public to DIY.   It appears to me  that some home buyers are caught up in the DIY theme when it comes to buying the home.  Consider a Buyer Agent before presenting your offer to purchase.

During the home inspection, I'll be happy to tell you about the condition of all the components of the home.  I'm happy to explain how the systems (heating, air conditioning, hot water, electric, etc) work.  Additionally we can talk about common maintenance intervals and tasks.   These are the common questions I get when a home buyer is represented by a buyer's agent.

When questions like;

  • Does the seller have to fix that problem? 
  • Should the seller have disclosed this issue prior to my offer? 
  • Can I ask the seller for a new water heater? 
  • Does steam heat reduce the value of the house?
  • Should I rescind/reduce my offer?

get asked.  My response is always the same.  Discuss that topic with your buyer's agent.

Too many times I hear; But I don't have a buyer's agent.  Can't you just tell me?

I tell them "Only licensed real estate brokers and salespersons can assist you with the purchase, sale, lease or exchange of real property."

There are many benefits for a buyer to hire a home inspector.  Just remember a home inspector is NOT a substitute for a Buyer's Agent.

Comments (3)

James Muhammad
RE/MAX Champions - Upland, CA
RE/MAX Vision

Jim.. I Love it.. The title is so true. The thing is sometimes buyers think they know more then the actual Real Estate Agents. I like the five (5) points you make also..

Sep 23, 2011 05:34 PM
Not a real person
San Diego, CA

Happy Tuesday!

Sep 27, 2011 05:20 AM
Debbie Walsh
SHAHAR Management - Middletown, NY
Hudson Valley NY Real Estate 845.283-3036

Amazing how many people try to cut corners like this all the time.

Oct 01, 2011 11:27 PM