MISTAKE #1: Not Researching the Inspector

Many buyers and sellers think hiring a home inspector is the only important step for an inspection. What they don’t realize is that an inspection is only reliable and accurate if the inspector is qualified, has proper training, and is experienced. For this, the buyers and sellers can research the inspector first before hiring them. They can look at the reviews online, ask their friends and family if they know about any reliable inspectors, and, most importantly, they can ask a few questions from the inspector, such as:

•         For how many years have you been inspecting homes?
•         To date, how many inspections have you conducted?
•         Do you have any certifications, qualifications, and training?
•         Can you show me some sample inspection reports?

Trends, standards, codes, and regulations of the industry keep changing. So if you don’t hire a certified and knowledgeable professional, then it might lead to significant issues in the future. Also, it is better that the inspector you’re hiring is ASHI or InterNACHI certified. I’m going to brag about our team a bit here.  We require hands-on experience with all of our team; we require yearly CEUs after initial training; and our guys meet together regularly to discuss what we’re seeing in the field so that we can assist both the buyer and also their agents.

MISTAKE #2: Not Attending  

It is not mandatory to be present at the time of inspection, but showing up at least towards the end to go over things with the inspector is a smart move. The inspection report is comprehensive and you may not always understand on your own (although we have a great report template and most find it pretty understandable!).

Yes, the inspection might take long and people are busy.  However, by coming to part of the inspection, you can ask us the questions you might have about the issues, repairs, and upgrades that need to be done.

MISTAKE #3: Not Reading the Inspection Report

We really should put this as number one.  We see this often: buyers and their agents who don’t thoroughly read the inspection report. The inspection report is an important document that contains detailed findings on different areas of homes, including:

•         Structural integrity
•         Electrical systems
•         Plumbing
•         Potential safety hazards

The report is not just limited to these. It contains much more, especially the recommendations for making repairs and maintenance. These can help to ensure your home’s long-term health and safety. Ignoring the inspection report can lead to unexpected issues and costly repairs. By not reviewing the inspection report thoroughly, you miss the opportunity to address concerns proactively and make informed decisions, ultimately risking the property’s value.

MISTAKE #4: Not Getting a Pre-Listing Inspection 

This one is a mistake specifically made by the sellers. And it’s surprising how many people don’t think this is needed. But when a buyer is aware and has a copy of a pre-listing report in hand, it’s extremely helpful for them and also gives them confidence that they’re purchasing from a conscientious seller.  Plus, with the pre-listing inspection, the seller gets more time to repair any issues, manage their budget, and have control over the spending for the fixes.

MISTAKE #5: Not Prepping the Home

Whether it’s the buyer who has scheduled the inspector or the seller, it’s important to get a home prepared for the inspection. After all, it’s not the inspector’s job to empty the closet first before they inspect the attic. If the house has a crawlspace, then the top of it should be empty; make sure nothing is sitting on top of it. Also, whatever areas of the home are locked must be unlocked to give the home inspector access to the area. We will need items moved away from the electrical panel and the furnace so we can access these as well. We provide a checklist to all home sellers (it’s emailed to their listing agent).  When a listing agent forwards this to their sellers, and their home seller takes this list seriously, home inspections are thorough and can be performed easily for their buyer.

Conclusion

To get the best inspection experience, you need to avoid these 5 top home inspection mistakes to ensure a smooth and successful real estate transaction. Thoroughly researching the inspector guarantees a reliable and professional assessment, while attending the inspection allows for real-time insights and clarifications. Reading the inspection report is essential for understanding the property’s condition and addressing any issues promptly. For sellers, getting a pre-listing inspection can preemptively tackle potential problems, making the property more appealing to buyers. Lastly, prepping the home for inspection ensures that the process is thorough and efficient. By steering clear of these common mistakes, you can foster a transparent, informed, and confident real estate experience.

Our team of expert inspectors has years of experience in construction, they provide detailed reports and professional insights, and we will help you make informed decisions with confidence. Schedule your inspection today and take the first step toward peace of mind. Contact Wiemann Home Inspection now to book your appointment!