After a decade working as a real estate agent and 400+ team sales, I’ve seen home inspections save deals and I’ve seen them sink them. Most buyers think the report is the only thing that matters, but how you handle the actual day of the inspection is just as important. Here are five common mistakes to avoid.
1. Picking the wrong inspector.
There are good inspectors, there are average ones, and there is one that will arrive in their Mercedes sedan. Safe to say, I’ve never seen the inspector arriving in his Benz get up on a ladder; he seems more interested in schmoozing. He gets a lot of 5-star online reviews though; people seem to like him as a person! Always ask your real estate agent, attorney, or trusted professionals for a recommendation. You don’t have to use them, but online reviews are not objective sources of quality.
2. Not staying for the entire inspection.
Some buyers like to pop out and grab coffee, lunch or simply leave the inspection early. The buyers figure they will review the report later. It’s critical that they stay. Little comments, suggestions, and so forth from their inspector could save them money down the road.
3. Bringing mom or dad to the inspection.
Mom and dad can be fun additions to an inspection, but they can also distract everyone with stories or homeowner advice that is irrelevant, dated, or incorrect. All the love to mom and dad, but generally it’s better that they are not there—or if they are, they know their role and do not act as the inspector’s assistant or even boss!
4. Creating goals before the inspection.
It’s critical buyers talk with their agents before the inspection to lay out the main goals. Surprisingly, the priorities vary. Sometimes it’s to assess certain known issues, other times it’s to compile a punch-list of items to be done before closing, and on occasion it’s simply to go in with an open mind and hear what an inspector has to say. Make the most of your few hours with the inspector by planning beforehand.
5. Knowing the limitations.
An inspector cannot see behind the walls and is not a licensed plumber or engineer. If an inspector flags a potentially major issue, ask to bring the relevant licensed professional in to inspect further. An inspection is like your annual physical; it’s just the start and rarely the end.
Bottom line: A home inspection is only as good as the team you have behind you. Whether you’re buying locally or moving across the country, don’t let a disinterested inspector or a lack of planning cost you thousands.
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