Know Your Home Inspector

What to Look for in a Home Inspector

No one wants to buy a home without knowing what they’re getting themselves into. As a buyer, the mystery that comes with not knowing the condition of a home is unnerving. This is why getting a home inspection is essential. It is also important to know your home inspector and their procedures before starting the process.

Questions to Ask a Potential Home Inspector

Before you hire a home inspector, ask them the following questions to help you make the best decision:

  1. Are you a member of a professional home inspector association?
  2. Are you experienced in residential inspection?
  3. How long have you been inspecting homes for?
  4. What does the inspection cover?
  5. Am I able to attend the inspection?
  6. How much will it cost?
  7. How long will it take?
  8. Do you offer any repairs or improvements based on the results of the inspection?
  9. What kind of report do you provide?
  10. How long will it take to receive that report?

Asking these questions will allow you to spot any red flags and help you determine if your home inspector is as good as they claim.

Look for Red Flags

Here are some red flags to look for when asking your home inspector the above questions:

  • Not providing documentation or identification that shows they are a member of a professional home inspector association. While being a member of a home inspector association doesn’t guarantee that the inspector is an expert, it is safe to assume that non-members are not experts.
  • Not providing referrals or work history upon request. If the inspector is unwilling to provide referrals or their related work history upon request, they may not be as qualified or experienced as they claim.
  • An inspector will not let you attend the inspection. It is important for you to attend the inspection. Not only are you able to make sure the inspector is thorough, but you will also be able to address any concerns about the home firsthand instead of after the report has been filed. A good home inspector will let you come on the inspection with them; a great inspector will talk you through it as they inspect each area of the home.
  • The inspector will not let you see a copy of their inspection report prior to the start of inspection. Your inspector should let you see a copy of the inspection report before they begin. The report details everything that will be covered during the inspection, and receiving a copy of it beforehand will allow you to ask any questions or add on specific areas you want to be inspected.

Other Important Information

An average inspection can take two to three hours. You should expect to receive the full, completed report within 24 hours. Not all inspectors make repairs onsite, but if they do, make sure to utilize their services. Finally, the cost of an inspection can vary, but an average range can be from $300-$500.

Make sure your home inspector answers the questions above before you begin, and always take precautions when you notice red flags.
Check out the Department of Housing and Urban Development website for more details on choosing the right home inspector.

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About Inlanta Mortgage

Headquartered in Brookfield, Wisconsin, Inlanta Mortgage is a growing mortgage banking firm committed to quality mortgage lending, ethical operations and strong customer service.

Inlanta Mortgage offers Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac agency products, as well as a full suite of jumbo and portfolio programs. The company is an agency approved lender for Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae, FHA/VA, FHA 203K and USDA. Inlanta Mortgage also offers numerous state bond agency programs. Review Inlanta’s mortgage loan programs.

Inlanta Mortgage was recently named a Top Workplace for a third time in 2015. Inlanta has also received the Platinum Million Dollar USDA Lender Award and has been recognized as a Top Mortgage Employer by National Mortgage Professional and a Top 100 Mortgage Banking Company and 100 Best Mortgage Companies to Work For by Mortgage Executive Magazine.
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