Buying a home is a HUGE financial investment, so when you are going through escrow, it is imperative that you hire a solid real estate team. That team includes your loan officer, real estate agent, and in some purchase agreements, the buyer may have the right to choose escrow and title officers. However, it seems that the buyer always overlooks who will be performing their home inspection. The home inspection can prevent you from suffering a HUGE financial loss. We’ve outlined a few basic steps to take when it comes to hiring a Southern California Home Inspector.
Your guide to hiring a Home Inspector includes:
- Finding the right person: Ask your friends and family about good home inspectors; you should also ask your real agent if they can recommend a particular home inspector.
- Do your research: One place to research their professional history is at the Better Business Bureau — they can tell you about any past complaints against the inspector.
- Education: You want someone who has received a quality home inspection education. Ask them where they went to school, what associations they belong to (make sure they’re part of an association that requires continuing education, and what kinds of degrees or certifications they have.
- Scope of Work: Ask the home inspector what parts of the home he/she will inspect. Be sure to ask about the roof, the swimming pool and appliances, or anything else you’re concerned about or would like to see addressed.
- Request a checklist sample: Ask to see a sample of the home inspection checklist that the home inspector will use when evaluating the home. See whether it is a thorough form that will allow the inspector to write up a detailed report or if it’s a simple, amateur form (BEWARE!).
- The final report: Find out how the inspector will deliver the final report to you. Will it be emailed, faxed or mailed? Ask if the report will include photographs of the home’s defects.
This guide is a simple outline that may be instrumental for your next real estate transaction and home inspection.
The Innovative Inspections Team
Serving San Diego, Riverside, and San Bernardino Counties