You do not buy a car without at least test driving it. It would be the logical decision that you would take it to a trusted mechanic and have them give it a thorough going over, before you pay for this vehicle, even if it is from someone that you know. Now, consider how much you would pay for the average used car and what you would pay for your home and you will see how important have a general home inspection really is. Consider it a test drive for the home that you are considering paying on for the next twenty or thirty years.
How To Find a Home Inspector In California
- Start with the real estate agent that you are using. Consider them to be your greatest asset. They will know the best in the business, not only for general home inspection but home improvements and other home projects.
- Get word of mouth referrals from other new home owners as well. They may give you names that were not included on the real estate agent’s list.
- Search the internet. Type in the keywords “home inspection” and then narrow it by location or you will be overwhelmed by your search results.
Once you have at least listings for general home inspectors, (you will need them to compare with one another) there are several questions that you will need to ask each before making a final decision. These include:
- What type of certification or license do you currently hold?
- What is your level of expertise in this field?
- How long have you been working in this industry?
- How long have you worked in this area or in your current location?
- Are you listed with the Better Business Bureau?
- Are you and your employees bonded and insured?
- What are your rates?
- How long will it take to get a completed report?
Take the time to ask each question because they are all important. You do not want to buy a home, make two payments and then have the roof cave in. You do not want to move into a home that might sink into the ground in a month’s time because the foundation is no good. And you do not want to move into a home that will have readymade house guests in the form of a termite infestation. You drove the car around the block, kicked the tires a couple of times and then drove it to a mechanic who would know what he was doing. Why wouldn’t you do the same for your home?