Let’s talk about some tips for finding a good home inspector in Austin, Texas.
I always recommend a home inspection to the buyers with whom I work. After all, purchasing a new home represents one of the largest investments for most people. So, it pays to protect that investment with a home inspection.
A Home Inspection may cost $300-$500 (depending on the size of the home) but that is just a drop in the bucket compared to what it might cost if there are problems with the home that are undetected.
Tip number one: Ask a REALTOR that you know, like, and trust.
Most real estate agents know many home inspectors in the area. They know which ones are good and which ones may not be so good. A good agent should be able to give you three names or more that you can call to interview before you hire.
Tip number two: find and read online reviews.
You can do your own search for a home inspector in Austin online and read the reviews from past clients. I always recommend this. You might also ask your friends who have recently bought a home.
Tip number three: find a home inspector that is ASHI affiliated.
ASHI stands for American Society of Home Inspectors. A good home inspector will be affiliated with a certifying organization.
Their web site says, “When you choose ASHI, you’ll be working with professional home inspectors who have passed the most rigorous technical examinations in effect today, including inspectors who are required to perform more than 250 professional inspections before they’re even allowed to call themselves ”certified”. No other professional society can match the credentials of an ASHI inspector.”
Tip number four: ask for a copy of a sample home inspection report.
I provide this to my own clients, but you can ask the home inspector for a sample report. This will help you understand the scope of the inspection and how to interpret the report once you receive it.
Tip number five: Ask to meet at the property.
Ask the home inspector if it is OK for you to meet him at the property to review the final report at the conclusion of the inspection. The homeowner may or may not allow you to be present during the course of the home inspection, but you should be able to meet the inspector street-side for a conversation.
Lastly, ask the home inspector at “what ifs.”
What happens if he missed a problem and it is discovered shortly after you move in? What happens if he flubbed up? Don’t expect the inspector to replace the entire air conditioning system if he missed a problem though. In most cases the inspector will refund you up to the cost of the report. That’s in the fine print of the contract you sign.
If you’re in the Austin, Texas area. Give me a call and I’ll be happy to share the name of a good home inspector.
