Reliable Sarasota Home Inspection

Homebuying 101: How to Choose a Home Inspector

A lot goes into choosing the right home to buy: You have to consider the area in general (nearby schools, your commute time, access to highways and shopping), as well as the feel of the neighborhood, street and immediate neighbors. You want to like the look of your new home, inside and out, and then it has to have the features you’re looking for—from square footage and number of bedrooms and baths to the layout of the kitchen and the size of the back yard. Maybe you’ve found a home with the kind of outdoor entertaining area you’ve always dreamed of, stunning bay windows and a cool office loft.

When it comes to the physical features of a house, a home inspector is vital in making sure you’re really getting what you’re seeing. Homebuyers also need to rely on inspectors to find problems as soon as possible, before you move in, get settled and then discover your dream home has some dark secrets.

With so much riding on your home inspection, it’s vital that you find a home inspector you can trust. So what should you look for in your home inspector?

The American Society of Home Inspectors offers certification on a national basis and is considered an industry leader in the establishment of standards and ethical practices for home inspectors. Additionally, Florida home inspectors must be certified by the state, a process that requires 120 hours of education and $300,000 of liability insurance.

Once you know an inspector’s credentials, you can check public information on sites like Angie’s List and the Better Business Bureau. These will give you a good overview of the inspector’s professional standing in the area.

Ask for recommendations. People who have been through home inspections, especially recently, can give you great insight into the process, enlighten you on potentially issues, and hopefully recommend an inspector who served them well.

And of course, interview prospective inspectors yourself. Make a list of questions—about the house, and about the inspection process—and take the time to address each of them. You, the homebuyer, have the most at stake, and you must feel comfortable to express and resolve each and every issue that comes to mind. A good inspector will be happy and transparent through the process.

Lastly, know what to expect from your inspector. The process will cost upwards of $300 and will take several hours, but if you’ve found the right inspector, it’s all worth it.