Consumption and Real Estate
How do you go about deciding who is the best company/person to do a home inspection?
Question : How do you go about deciding who is the best company/person to do a home inspection?
I mean they all seem so similar. Does it just boil down to price? How much does a typical inspection cost? What questions should I ask before choosing an inspector?
home inspection pricing
Best answer:
Answer by doubleb
Usually if you’re purchasing a home using a realtor they will suggest a company to do the inspections and will get it set up for you. If you’re doing this on your own, I would suggest calling a few realtors in your area and see who they would recommend since they use these companies so frequently. You can expect to pay a few hundred dollars for most inspections, but it can vary depending on the company and how extensive the inspection is. Most states don’t have any guidelines or license requirements when it comes to home inspectors, so if you’re finding one on your own check with your local BBB and even places like Angie’s List. Make sure to ask how many inspections that they have done and for a list of references so you can talk to some others who have used them.
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#2 written by linkus86 1 year ago
Good Question! Inspections can cost as little as $ 200 but you get what you pay for. I agree that all the home inspection companies appear the same and the interesting part is that they all make you sign these long contracts that makes them not liable for anything if they miss something along the way. I am a Realtor and my smartest buyers didn’t rely on a singular company to inspect the home, but had various inspectors, each with their own specialty (plumber, HV-AC, roofer, electrician, etc) come and take a look with each one costing between $ 75 and $ 150. the beauty of this method is that you can get a proper estimate for repairs, if they find anything, that you can include in your request for repairs or price renegotiation’s. Some say that because they are a member of ASHI (American society of home inspectors) that they are more reliable, but this is nothing but a trade association and requires no expertise. It is up to you if you boil it down to price or thoroughness. Good Luck!
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#3 written by glenn 1 year ago
I would ask a number of friends and family that have recently bought a home. See who they used and see what they thought. Failing that – I would ask my Realtor. Last idea is call three or four out of phone book and attempt to talk with the inspector and ask them questions- anything really- but maybe #1 How long have they been doing this? #2 How many inspections did they do last year? #3 How long should you expect an inspection to last? #4 How were they trained for this?
What you are really trying to do is get them to talk- and see what you think about their communication style. I have found that some are pretty crazy people. Some are pretty smart. And I think you can tell the difference pretty quick.
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In my area, the inspectors that do not get used as much by people in the RE business keep the lights on by under cutting the better inspectors price by $ 15 – $ 20. And, for the most part, they are going to be close on price. The price of the inspection is typically determined by the square footage of the house.
I would ask if they are an accredited inspector (and what designations they hold), how many years they have been in business, how long it takes them to do an inspection, how many do they do a week, what continuing education do they attend. Ask if you can call for a follow-up after you receive the inspection report (clarfiying questions and such), a really good inspector will meet you at the house later and go over the areas of concern with you if you want. And of course, you can ask for recommendations from friends, your Realtor, etc..
A good home inspector is worth their weight in gold.