Buying or selling a home is a big decision, and it is important to align yourself and your family with reliable professionals throughout the entire process. We hear quite frequently the home inspection can be one of the most “feared” steps in the home buying journey. It definitely doesn’t have to be. Your real estate agent is a great resource here as well. Many times they have had both positive and negative experiences working with different companies and individuals and would be happy to point you in the direction of their go-to inspector. They also might have a list for you with several to choose from. Although it may be tempting to make this decision based solely upon cost, it is best to have an understanding of what your money is paying for and who you will be working with.
Here are some great questions to ask when interviewing a home inspector:
1. Do you review the home inspection report on site; and am I able to attend the home inspection with the inspector?
There is a big difference in receiving a 30+ page inspection report and trying to decipher what is/is not a “big deal” and having the opportunity to walk the property with your home inspector. A great home inspector might invite you/your agent out to the property for a review of the report at the tail end of the appointment. If you are out of town and this is not possible, ask the inspector if he will conduct a FaceTime/phone call review with you. It can also be very helpful if a summary page is included at the end of the report to help highlight potential issues for you and your agent to discuss.
2. Is the home inspector a member of any professional associations?
In many states, home inspectors are required to keep up with continuing education requirements. It shows a company with a desire to keep learning and stay up on the latest safety and efficiency regulations if the inspector is also involved in an organization like InterNACHI or ASHI. These organizations equip home inspectors with resources and education they may not otherwise have.
3. What parts/systems in the house are you inspecting?
It is important for you to have an understanding of exactly what the home inspection entails. A home inspection should inspect the present condition of the home’s major systems (plumbing, electrical, structural components, foundation, HVAC, grading and drainage, and major appliances) based on a visual inspection of accessible features. You may want to ask specifically about irrigation systems, pools, wood destroying insect inspections, pier and beam foundations. These areas often are handled by an individual other than the home inspector and may incur additional charges.
4. What is your turnaround time for the inspection report?
This is especially important in an environment with extremely short option periods. Your home inspector may come back with a recommendation for a HVAC technician or structural engineer to evaluate your new home, and if it takes too long to receive your report it may halt the negotiation process with the seller.
5. What experience/background/other resources do you have?
How long has this person been in business? If they haven’t been in the field very long, do they have a network or team of resources to go to for additional information they do not have. What is their online presence like? Do they have positive feedback showing online? Reading what others say about working with this company is a valuable tool. It can also be comforting to have a conversation with the inspector if possible before you make your decision. Working with a like minded inspector can ease the communication process, and you may feel more free to ask questions. Look for a home inspector with the heart of a teacher who is in business to partner with your family on your journey!
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