A Real Estate licensee’s job is to ease the process of buying or selling properties for their clients. One crucial part of this process is inspecting the home in question. Enter the home inspector: a real estate agent’s silent partner, their magnifying glass into the quality, vitality, and potential of the property. But what does a Real Estate agent really look for in a home inspector? What qualities top their wish list? Let’s dive in.

Expertise & Certification

When it comes to their chosen home inspector, real estate agents desire someone who is the absolute expert in their line of work. While experience and familiarity with home inspection processes are important, it’s not just about being certified, its all about being qualified. The best home inspectors are those who have a deep understanding of the industry and its standards. They should be able to explain their findings in layman’s terms, as well as provide you with a detailed report that clearly outlines any issues found during the inspection.

Reliability

Reliability is the trademark of a worthy home inspector. What a real estate agent really looks for is the need to trust their inspector to arrive on time. Complete the job efficiently, and meet the deadlines. An inspector who holds their commitment high preserves the reputation and relationship with the client.

A reliable home inspector is one who will be there when you need them, and who can provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision about your new home.

Comprehensive Inspection

A home inspector should be diligent and thorough in their work process. What a real estate agent really looks for is are they examining the property’s entirety from the foundation, structures, and systems to roofing? Do they wander into the basement, investigate the HVAC system, and traverse the attic? Do they inspect the plumbing, electrical systems, and insulation? A broad sweep isn’t sufficient; they must delve into the details.

Clear Communication

Something all Real Estate agents crave in a home inspector is clear and open communication. This involves lucidity in inspections and reports. The inspector should be able to articulate their findings in layman’s terms to both the real estate agent and the client. When problems arise or complexities occur, the inspector should explain these issues in an easily understandable manner.

The inspector should also be able to communicate with the client and real estate agent about any issues that arise during the inspection. This includes explaining what they are seeing, why it is important, and how it can be fixed. A good home inspector will have a clear understanding of their role in the transaction process. They should not only understand what they are looking for but also why it matters.

Detailed Reporting

An ideal home inspector is someone who provides a detailed, well-documented report after their inspection. The report allows the real estate agent and the client to grasp the condition of the house better. Including photos or videos of the property’s problem areas is a bonus that enhances the overall clarity and usefulness of the report.

What a real estate agent really looks for is the home inspector provides a list of recommended repairs or improvements that can be made to the property. This helps the client understand what they are getting into and how much it will cost them in the long run.

Professionalism

A bubbly personality might not be a requirement for a home inspector, but a high level of professionalism certainly is. The ability to present oneself appropriately, maintaining respectful interaction with both the real estate pro and the clients, and behaving impartially at all times are all crucial elements of this professionalism. A home inspector should also be able to provide a clear and concise report that is easy to understand. This will help the client make an informed decision about whether or not they want to purchase the property.

Prompt Response

Good communication is incomplete without responsiveness. Home inspectors who are quick to respond to calls, emails, and queries. Real estate agents and their clients will often have questions and concerns before and after the inspection. Therefore, efficient communication is key for an inspector to be considered in high regard.

Up-to-date Knowledge

The world is evolving daily, and so are housing technology and requirements. An exceptional home inspector should have up-to-date knowledge and be ready to tackle new challenges head-on. Whether it’s understanding the latest solar panels, energy-efficient installations, or updated regulations, continuous learning is a must.

A home inspector should be able to provide you with a comprehensive report that includes all of the findings from the inspection. This report should also include recommendations for repairs and improvements, as well as an estimate of how much it will cost to make these changes.

Availability

In the fast-paced world of real estate, things move quickly. Hence, real estate agents appreciate home inspectors who can accommodate their schedule and offer flexibility. An inspector’s availability to slot into required schedules helps to keep the home buying or selling process smooth and timely.

Liability Insurance

Last but not the least, having liability insurance is essential for home inspectors. Damage or injuries can occur during inspections, so it’s important for them to be insured. Look for inspectors who bear liability insurance, as it protects all parties involved in the case of an unfortunate event during the inspection process.

It protects them from any claims made by clients or third parties who are injured during the inspection process. This type of coverage also protects the homeowner, as it ensures that they will not be held responsible if someone gets hurt while on their property.

Wrapping it Up

A home inspector is the cornerstone of any real estate transaction. They inspect the unseen, simplify the complicated, and assure the clients that they are making the right choice. The blend of expertise, reliability, detailed reporting, clear communication, professionalism, up-to-date knowledge, and availability ideally tops a real estate agents wish list. Moreover, being certified and insured amplifies an inspector’s credibility. Having a stellar inspector on the team makes the journey of buying or selling a home easier, safer, and more worthwhile for everyone involved.

They not only inform but also reassure; they carry their tools and along with it the peace of mind for the real estate agent and their client. A superior home inspector truly is a real estate agents best ally in navigating the thrilling path of real estate. What does a Real Estate agent really look for in a home inspector?

The average annual salary for a home inspector in the state of New York is $74,563 per year. (Bls.gov) Salaries can range from $78,997 to $103,624 depending on where you work in the state. You deserve to be making the most money possible, not just the average. Become the BEST NY home inspector with ATI training and Manfred Real Estate Learning Center.

See how New York compares to the national average home inspector salary.