As a property owner, we’ve stressed in this series, the importance of areas of ownership that require a hands-on approach. We have also indicated that “hands-on” does not necessarily mean that you have to take care of them personal. To reiterate, as a leader in property management, Carod Properties strongly suggest these are areas that you need to be plugged into to make sure these vital areas don’t succumb to falling through the cracks. Even if you hire a realtor and subsequently a property management company, it is advisable that inspections is something you remain dialed into.
If you watch home improvement shows and the like, you’ve undoubtedly seen realtors advising homebuyers to get a home inspection before purchase. They write into that their offer that purchase is contingent on a favorable home inspection. Or, you’ll see, during renovations, how many things were done incorrectly that would’ve been caught during home inspections or while getting building permits. There are far too many people with a hammer and a dream, and just probably a license, that simply don’t know how to do the job properly or don’t care to. The importance of hiring a licensed home inspector is as important as finding the right property. That is, essentially, why it should be of personal interest to the property owner. Because failure to do so will affect the bottom line and place the investment in jeopardy.
How to hire a reputable Home Inspector:
Understand Licensing. Just about anyone can become licensed so don’t let that be the determining factor. Add to that, home inspection is not government regulated. Nothing beats old-fashioned investigation. Use a website that has a database and reviews, READ the reviews, and ask questions.
Questions to Ask. An inspector’s qualifications will tell you if they’re right for you. If their background is in commercial properties, they may be ill-qualified to discern areas of concern in a home. Their training and experience should be in a related field, such as construction. They should be able to thoroughly answer what is included in an inspection. Everyone’s not a poet, but you should walk away with a clear understanding from the information they provide. And, references. They should be able to give them (if not volunteered) when asked and have no objections, in doing so.
Red Flags. Instinct is a powerful tool. If someone rushes you to hire them, evades questions, or even just rubs you the wrong way…thank them for their time and walk away. An inspector may have suggestions at the ready for potential contractors, but they should not try to force it. Chances are, though they may be slim, that they have a deal with the contractor. This may just be a hug for the referral or something as nefarious as them finding things in the inspection that their friend can charge for yet not have to address. It happens!
Because of the potential for costs and problems down the line, Carod Properties advises that you protect your investment by being an integral part of the inspection process. Though they are not working on your home/investment, they should have the same type knowledge to properly identify current and potential problems. Here, is not where you look for the best price but the best option. If you have to spend now—time and money—you’ll save both later!
