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Secrets On Finding A Great Home Inspector
Once you've made that decision, you need to find a good home inspector to help you out.
It's not enough just to find a "good" home inspector, you need to find one that is great.
Here are a few suggestions to help you out.
First, finding a great home inspector is similar to finding other reputable real estate professionals.
Ask for a referral from your real estate agent and friends.
Ask them who they would recommend.
Ask friends, relatives, or colleagues who they have used in the past and if they had a good experience.
Next, check out the inspectors that you find online.
You can start with the American Society of Home Inspectors (ashi.
org).
This is a non-profit group that screens home inspectors.
To join, an inspector has to pass 2 home inspection exams and would have to have completed at least 50 home inspections.
ASHI's website allows you to enter your zip code to find a qualified inspector in your area.
Make a list of qualified inspectors in your area and the next thing to do is to call them.
Call each one of the inspectors to find out how they conduct their inspections, what's covered, how much they charge, and how long the inspection will take.
These things are important.
A thorough inspection of a moderately sized property should take at least two hours.
The inspection of the house should cover the complete interior of the house from basement to attic and include the exterior of the house.
You want to make sure that you accompany the inspector during this inspection.
Check the credentials of your inspector.
Make sure that they are licensed, bonded, and insured.
Ask if they are a member of a professional group such as ASHI and ask them how much experience they actually have.
Make sure that they are in compliance with all state laws, regulations, and procedures.
Pay attention to the inspector's phone manner.
Is he good on the phone? Is he courteous on the phone or does it seem like he is eager to get you off the phone? If he is rushing you, beware! He might just rush through your inspection.
Also, ask them about their home inspection reports.
What kind of report is the inspector going to provide you at the end of the inspection? Does this report include photographs of potential problems? It should! Last of all, ask the home inspector for at least three references and make sure you call these references.
You want to make sure that others have had a good experience.
Ask these references if they would use that home inspector again in the future.
Finding a good home inspector is important when you are getting ready to sell your home.
But, it's not that much harder to find a really great one.
I hope these tips will help you find a great home inspector and good luck on selling your home!
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