Facebook
X
Pinterest
Copy Link
Welcome to my new Real Estate advice column, “Dear Serena,” where I strive to answer your burning Real Estate questions. Email yours to me at serena@windermere.com and I’ll try to answer them in future columns.
Dear Serena:
I’m about to make an offer on a home, and I know I need to have a home inspection. My friend told me to find my own inspector rather than the home inspector recommended by my real estate agent. Should I use the home inspector my agent recommends? How would I find another home inspector?
Buyer Bob
Dear Buyer Bob,
Well first, I’m thrilled that you’re having an inspection! In a competitive market some buyers are declining to have an inspection, and I think that is a big mistake.
In my opinion, Washington State is much more seller-friendly than buyer-friendly and there is more and more onus on the buyer to do their due diligence, which not only includes a home inspection, but also to really check out the neighborhood. A seller does not have to tell you anything about the neighborhood, even if someone was murdered in the street or even in their house for that matter!
So, to answer your question, it really depends on whether you trust your real estate agent. It sounds like your friend might think there is some collusion going on between an inspector and an agent, and while I’ve certainly heard some bad stories, they’re rare.
Also, I always recommend three specific inspectors who I’ve used over the years, and I must sign a disclosure to say that I only have a working relationships with them and that we’re not related in any way! I always recommend ASHI certified inspectors who are very through and that is what you want. You can always go to the ASHI site and find an inspector in your area, if you prefer to go that route.
The reason I recommend ASHI inspectors is because they’ve gone through a much more rigorous training than a lot of other home inspectors. To become a licensed inspector in Washington State you are required to complete 120 hours of training, and up to 40 hours of field training supervised by a licensed home inspector. ASHI Inspectors have to perform more than 250 professional inspections before they’re even allowed to call themselves “certified”. No other professional society can match the credentials of an ASHI inspector.
A good home inspection will give you an unbiased assessment of the structural and mechanical soundness of the home. The inspector will identify any existing or potential problem areas, and give an overview of the condition of the foundation, basement, roof, windows, doors, walls, ceilings, floors, plumbing, electrical, heating and cooling systems. It should take between 2-4 hours depending on the size and condition of the house. I hope this information is helpful to you and I wish you luck!
All the best,
Serena
