The Seven Most Costly Misconceptions About Home Inspections – Misconception #4
Misconception #4: The company that offers the lowest price is the company you should hire. “Maybe – but not always. Here are two important points to consider.
Point #1: The company that offers the cheapest price is generally showing you a couple of things. One that they are new and or that they don’t really know what their cost is, meaning they are likely not to be in business for long. If you are only concerned about one of two items you can probably have a specialist come out and look at it for less than the inspection, or you can even have a friend or relative look at it and give you their expert advice. “On the other hand, if you want a through inspection that gives you a computerized report right on sight with a straight forward summary page – if you want to know the status of all the major systems in the home – then you need to hire a company that has been doing it for years and understands that they are working for you and no one else. You are their main concern and making sure that you understand the condition of the house is their first priority. “Because hiring someone to do a home inspection for you is something that most homebuyers only do once every 3-5 years you are likely not even going to realize if you received a poor inspection until it is too late. So remember that the price you pay may not give you the information that you are hoping for with many inspectors.
Point #2: A one-man operation can charge less because he has less overhead. “This may be true, but many homeowners have learned that the low price they pay for a one-man operation also means there is less standing behind the man. “And if you have hired a one-man operation, you too may have experienced the problem of getting back in touch with him when and if there was a problem or is you needed a re-inspect and he was too busy to get you taken care of in a timely manner. Also many one-man operations will not have the ability to take care of all the inspections that you may wish or need and you end up having to call someone eels to do the termite inspection, radon tests, or other extras that your home may have. “As in all businesses and professions, the home inspection industry has its share of bad apples. I take no pleasure in telling you this, but some are unethical – and, sadly, a few are dishonest. By their deep concern for others besides you, they may leave you hanging and missing vital information that you should have to make a complete and informed decision. This is another reason you want to make sure you walk away from the home the day of the inspection with a full report, with photos, and an easy to read summary page. This gives other people less opportunity to influence the inspector’s report. “Then you’ll find other home inspection companies – professionals like me who work hard to earn your trust and respect.
“As a way of improving our profession, I’ve dedicated my business to educating the public. The only way you can make an intelligent decision is to have all the facts you need.
Misconceptions You Might Have Missed:
Misconception #1: You should wait as long as possible before getting your home inspection.
Misconception #2: You don’t need a home inspection if you are getting a home warranty.
Contributed to GrandRapidsResource.com by:
Grand Rapids Real Estate 
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