Do you use an inspector? Why or Why Not?

Question

I am negotiating a FSBO right now and am attempting VA financing for the purchase. I know I will need a VA appraisal, but an inspection is not required.

For those of you comfortable with the evaluation of a residential property, do you still hire and inspector?

Jon Holdman · Answer

Like J  Scott I used to always have inspections.  I've come to the conclusion they're useless if you know very much about houses.  For a homeowner, who's not very knowledgeable and is buying one or two houses in a lifetime, do an inspection.  But if you've owned multiple houses and have actually spent some time learning about construction, I think they're a waste of money.  The ONLY benefit I see is being able to use it to negotiate with a seller.

If there's a specific issue, I hire a specialist to evaluate specific issue.

J Scott · Answer

I used to use an inspector on every purchase. After about 10 of them, I started to realize that the only value the inspector brought was when he could assess the expensive items that I couldn't assess (roof, foundation, old electrical, etc). By then, I had learned how to evaluate these things myself, and didn't need him anymore. In fact, for most houses these days, I won't even turn on the utilities, as I factor in the worst case numbers for things like plumbing and HVAC issues (which aren't that expensive anyway).

These days, I do the inspections myself, unless I have a property where I'm concerned about something that could cost $5000+ (like foundation or structural issues).

Rob K. · Answer

I had inspections done on the first few houses that I purchased. After a while, I figured that if I was paying $250 each time, that money would add up and could be used to pay for any suprise repairs. Nowadays, I check everything myself. Usually, I'm not able to check the plumbing or furnace, but I'm getting such a good price that if they are bad, it won't be a deal breaker. I'm mostly concerned with the foundation, which I can check myself. Roofs and windows are expensive, but you can usually tell by looking at them if they are ok. You can always go up on the roof yourself and check it out. I like to look in the attic and check for mold.

I did purchase a ten year old house a few years back in the winter. The roof was covered in snow, but I figured "it's only 10 years old. How bad could it be?" It was bad.

Jennifer Lee · Answer

After reading the post. I use one for seller purposes too. Also in case I flip I know what issues the buyers inspector will find and remedy it now.

Also my inspector turned out to be DOOMS DAY inspector, good for me as buyer. Bc half the stuff on inspection my contractor easily fixed. It wasn't as serious as the "CRACK IN FOUNDATION"or "FLOODING IN BASEMENT " statements.

Paula Smith · Answer

I always recommend an inspection and when I purchase, I use one.  We have inspectors which use thermal imaging--works well to see behind the drywall or tile in showers to find leaks (past or current).  Also, you can see the studs/electrical/insulation (or lack there of) etc...so it's useful to know what you're dealing with in a reno.  Beyond the thermal, it's nice to have another set of eyes and climb up on roof/attic etc...

Steve Wilcox · Answer

I think it can never hurt to have a second set of eyes on the property.

I currently am using one one all houses (although contemplate not, although I do the same with an attorney)

I do agree with J  Scott that as you get more comfortable you might not really need one. I have been around construction my whole life, and feel I have a very sound knowledge of building, but most homes in my area are almost 100 years old, so there are lots of little things that may have been fixed, or jury rigged over the years that another set of eyes really helps find. I do walk through with my gc before closing to verify my price estimates, but the more eyes that pick it apart the better.

I also have a GREAT inspector, tons of knowledge, and willing to crawl in dirty spots to check stuff out. I have seen some reports from other agencies that are much cheaper that buyers have used, and I would rate their services as a waste of money. It all depends on your knowledge, and your inspectors knowledge.

David Niles · Answer

I do not use one, but have been in the construction field my whole life.  I do though recommend them to all my clients for their piece of mind and to help possibly save me any issues down the road.

Robert Steele · Answer

I always use an inspector even though they rarely find anything I didn't already spot. I have done enough rehabs and maintenance overt the years that I could do the inspection myself. I guess it is kind of like buying insurance. Old habits die hard.

Jennifer Lee · Answer

I don't like surprises so Always hire inspector.

Justin S. · Answer

I hire an inspector but he only looks for the major stuff.  He charges me $150.  Its worth it for me.

Do you use an inspector? Why or Why Not?

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