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By Patty Goff


More often, the success of a business transaction between a home seller and a purchaser can depend on one person. That person is the home inspector. Armed with the power that can make great deals turn very sour if the job has not been done appropriately, a potential buyer must make it his responsibility to hire a great professional for his sake.

All houses are not created equal. They are also imperfect, which is why a man who will conduct a home inspection Des Moines must know the thin line between imperfection and problem. Most house problems can be repaired, yet requires sharp observation.

Like in most jobs, there are people who call themselves professionals whether they are qualified or unqualified for the work. Few states license or regulate home inspectors, so the first thing to weed out the poison ivy is to look for credentials. Regulation may fall short, but there is a plethora of home inspector associations that you can trust just by the reputation of the name. Look for certification.

Have the person you are about to hire send you a sample report. If he sends you a document with only four to five pages, ditch the guy and move on with the other fish in the sea. Comprehensive reports are known to have an average of twenty to fifty pages, and often include photos and highlighted paragraphs that describe and talk about the defects and issues of the property.

An independent inspector is also highly recommended. You would not want someone with conflicts of interest, such as one who recommends a certain contractor or developer. Be wary of those who are also tied to real estate agents, who might just be sucking up to them to get the house quickly sold regardless of condition and can put words on the lips of your inspector. Also, inspectors are not repairmen, so avoid those who will offer to fix the plumbing or rework the basement.

Ask about how long the inspection will occur. At least three hours is necessary to complete the job properly. Someone who just sticks his head into a room, gets out, calls it a day and writes a report is not someone you want to pay for your home inspection. You want someone who is willing to take the time to intensely study the house as if it were a university degree.

Inquire directly about resinspection fees. For most states, it is courtesy for the professional to return to the house to examine if the necessary actions, such as repairs, are done and if the property is good to go. Do not just say okay when the seller says it is already okay. Check it before you unwittingly buy the house and regret the expensive liabilities.

Yet, even the greatest of inspectors must have a margin of error. Everyone does and deserves that. And like recognizing the fragility of our existence by getting health and life insurance, reputable home inspectors have an errors and omissions coverage in case he makes a mistake.

Finally, be there during the inspection, even for just the last thirty minutes. You owe it to yourself to have the time to be able to see the property you are about to purchase. Allow the inspector show you the defects and see if they are minor or major, and if there are other concerns you might like to add or discuss.




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