5 Questions To Ask Before Hiring A Home Inspector

What To Ask Your Parkland Home Inspector

Recently, we have represented many future Parkland homeowners.  After sealing the deal and agreeing on terms, the next important process on the road to home ownership is the home inspection.  Purchasing a new home is one of your biggest investments that you will make. Even though the process is very exciting, it can quickly become overwhelming.  The dream home you purchased appears to be exactly what you are looking, but you must be sure that there are not any hidden or potentially serious defects that could cost you thousands if not tens of thousands of dollars.

It is imperative to hire the best inspector before buying any home.  Below, please find 5 questions to ask before hiring a home inspector:

1. Will your inspection meet recognized standards? Before hiring your home inspector ask  if the inspection will meet state requirements and if the inspector is a member of the American Society of Home Inspectors or the National Association of Home Inspectors.
2. How experienced is the inspector? Ask how long the inspector has been in business and do not be afraid to ask for customer referrals/testimonials to verify his/her recent expertise.
3. Is your focus on residential inspections? It is also important to make sure that your inspector specializes in residential home inspections which is very different from commercial inspections.
4. What type of inspection report do you provide? We have seen many different inspectors, and it is important to see sample reports in order to know how detailed your report will be.  Will there be photographs taken of any problems or areas of concerns with detailed descriptions?  Understanding the reporting style of the inspector is very important before hiring the inspector.  Also, make sure to request that you receive the full inspection report with 48 hours.
5. How much will the inspection cost? Most inspection companies charge one fee to the client.  This fee includes a licensed roofer to inspect the roof, a licensed termite inspector, and the home inspector.  Costs should range from $300.00 to $500.00 depending on the size of the home.  Also, it is imperative to get a wind mitigation inspection done in order to help significantly save on your home insurance.  Ask your home inspector if he/she can give you a discount if you hire them for both the home inspection and wind mitigation inspection.

As licensed Realtors, we provide our clients with a list of approved home inspectors.  As a result, they can then choose which inspector they like.  One home inspector in particular, Tom Boyd with South Florida Home Inspection Services, has been doing many inspection for our recent clients.  Tom has been doing inspection in South Florida for over 25 years.  His attention to detail is a tremendous added service for our clients.  Please click here to preview Tom’s sample inspection reports

For more information on Tom Boyd and South Florida Home Inspection Service, please click here

We know the numbers, we analyze the market, our clients make better decisions. If you are interested in buying in Parkland or South Florida and are looking for experienced local Realtors, please do not hesitate to contact the Squawk at 954-609-0591 or send us a message here.

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