Home inspections
It came up in another thread that some of you always have your prospective properties inspected.
Of coarse I look over each property on my own. I test the electric for grounding, and examine the main breaker panel for updates. I look in the crawl space or basement for water or structure issues. I certainly check the roof.
If I made my purchase contingent on an inspection by a professional home inspector the seller will simply go with a buyer that does not require this. To have the inspection done right you would have to have the electric, gas, and water turned on. I really doubt the bank is going to do that!
I already have to bid over asking to get better houses. I just do not see a professional inspector as being practical. Is this just me?