Should I use a home inspector recommended by a listing agent?

Answer: No, it is a conflict of interest
Explanation: This isn't always a bad thing to do, but some inspectors will rely solely on clients form the real estate agent so sometimes conflicts of interest can arise and the inspector could side with the realtor over their client to keep business coming in.

Answer: No, it is a conflict of interest
Explanation: Listing agents work for sellers of homes and do not protect the buyer's interests. Their influence on a buyer's decisions should be minimal or nonexistent. Buyer's agents do work for the buyer but there is still an inherent conflict of interest involved, as agents typically refer inspectors that they have had the most success with in closing deals. However, many agents are ethical and do seek out the most thorough inspector regardless of the impact on their closings. A real estate agent's recommendation for a home inspector can be a valuable resource provided that the agent is first and foremost concerned with the buyer's interests. However, this is impossible for the average buyer to discern until well after the sale. Many home inspectors get the majority of their business through real estate agent referrals but the industry would be better served by having the buyer do their own research.

Answer: Yes
Explanation: If a listing agent has worked with an inspector before, I think that there's not a problem with continuing to work with the inspector.

Answer: Yes
Explanation: If the seller supply's an inspection report, review and determine if there's further inspections necessary. Your agent should be able to advise after looking at the property as well.

Answer: Not sure
Explanation: It depends on the situation, a private home inspector works only for you, not for the promise of more work from a listing agent.

Answer: Not sure
Explanation: It is up to the homeowner, but always look at the fees of the SQFT of your property

Answer: Yes
Explanation: Yes, I have many good relationships with inspectors and when you know how they work and trust them it is key to connecting the right engineer with you buyers/sellers.

Answer: Yes
Explanation: You are never obligated to use any business or service recommended by a real estate agent. However, because real estate agents work with real estate related businesses and services, they know who is reputable and capable.

Answer: Yes
Explanation: I can't speak for other inspectors but I inspect EVERY home as if it was my own. A good relationship with a realtor will not have any impact on how I write the inspection report.

Answer: Yes
Explanation: You may use whoever you want when I recommend a vendor. I make sure I give at least 3(or more) different home inspection companies to you. I suggest you have 10 questions on how they do their service for you.

Answer: Yes
Explanation: A Listing Agent should refer you to 3, however, if you want to hire someone outside of that circle that is prudent to protect yourself.

Answer: No, it is a conflict of interest
Explanation: Homebuyers should choose their own home inspector after doing their own due diligence when buying a home. It's the buyer, not their Realtor nor the seller's Realtor, who need to live with the consequences of potentially choosing an unqualified home inspector. Many listing agents only refer inspectors that are soft on homes and won't find issues that could result in the sale not going through or the listing agent's commission being lowered due to a lower sales price.

Answer: Yes
Explanation: In the realm of real estate transactions, inspections play a pivotal role. They are fundamental to ensuring the soundness of a property and protecting the interests of both buyer and seller. Most real estate agents excel in providing their clients with a list of recommended inspectors, often offering at least three for the sake of fairness and range of choice. This practice is not only acceptable but highly commendable as it fosters transparency and equitability in the transaction process. Upon receiving the list of inspectors, it's incumbent upon the client to do their part. A thorough review of each inspector’s website is highly recommended. This will provide a snapshot of their services, experience, qualifications, and customer reviews. It can also provide insights into their professional approach and whether it aligns with your expectations. A call to the inspectors can further elucidate their inspection style, reporting methods, availability and fees. These steps are crucial to making an informed choice. Ultimately, the power of decision making rests with you, the client. You have the autonomy to choose the inspector who best meets your requirements and resonates with your expectations. This is a significant decision as it impacts the outcome of your property investment. Therefore, take advantage of the options provided by your real estate agent, conduct comprehensive research on each inspector, and make a well-informed decision based on your findings. This approach will ensure that you receive reliable, high-quality inspections that promote confidence in your real estate transaction.

Answer: Yes
Explanation: If the agent has a working history and trust the inspector and has the best interest of the buyer then that inspector would be a great choice. I would ask for several different inspectors to choose from and select one that is most aligned with your values and concerns

Answer: Not sure
Explanation: If you use a home inspector that is recommended by a listing agent; just keep in mind that the listing agent is trying to sell the home for his/her client. In some cases you may find that a listing agent might have a home inspector that is less than honest in their report to help the listing agent sell the house. In general, most agents are very reputable; but there are a few out there that ruin it for the industry. Do your homework on your home inspector and choose who you feel comfortable with.

Answer: Not sure
Explanation: Typically, if you are purchasing a home you would get referrals from your buyer agent. You should get at least three referrals. The buyer agent is a good resource, but seek out other real estate professionals you trust for recommendations also and do your own research. Reach out to all three inspectors and ask questions about not only what they charge, but what the process of inspecting a home includes and how experienced they are in performing inspections, especially homes similar to what you are purchasing. By conversing, you should be able to develop a comfort level with one that would be the best fit for what you need.

Answer: Yes
Explanation: Home inspectors should be non-biased, providing professional assessments on the condition and safety of a home.

Answer: Yes
Explanation: You can always use the home inspector referred by your agent. I don't see a reason why you shouldn't use the home inspector they have referred you to. You should feel comfortable enough with your agent and guide you to someone, whoever that may be, that the trust is not a concern and your agent has your best interest.

Answer: No, it is a conflict of interest
Explanation: If you are a buyer, then you could use one recommended by your real estate representative.

Answer: No, it is a conflict of interest
Explanation: You should make your own decision of who you choose to inspect your property. The listing agent is not working in your best interest if you are the buyer working with the selling agent.

Answer: Yes
Explanation: This can be a tricky question. You need to do your due diligence as well and see if you are getting a cheap inspector who has only been in business a few years. Experience in home inspections (10 years or more) greatly improves your chances of finding issues that other will for sure miss.

Answer: Yes
Explanation: It is ultimately up to you who you choose to perform your home inspection. Your Realtor generally will have your best interests in mind when they pass along referrals. Always look for a Certified Master Inspector - they are the best of the best when it comes to home inspections.

Answer: Not sure
Explanation: That is up to the consumer. I feel sometimes it is in your best interest to find an inspector the real estate agent is not familiar with so the agent does not try to "get a sale". The inspection can find things that make the purchaser change their decision on a purchase and agents do not want that to happen. But in some cases the consumer may want to go with an inspector the agent already trusts. Each and every transaction has its own story.

Answer: No, it is a conflict of interest
Explanation: Home Inspectors work for you, the Client, not Realtor's. Do your own due diligence, and hire an Inspector that will work for your interests.

Answer: Not sure
Explanation: Home inspectors that are totally independent and have a great report on Angie's list or any other referral network is where I would start. A listing agent wants the home to sell and the buyer wants to buy however before I would spend my money I would want at least 1 or 2 home inspectors to go through to notice any current or possible future problems.

Answer: Yes
Explanation: We work with quality inspectors who understand that they are there to provide honest feedback about the house they are purchasing. Trusted home inspectors with a wealth of knowledge and experience.

Answer: No, it is a conflict of interest
Explanation: It depends. Possibly the listing agent will suggest a home inspector that they know will overlook problems with the property. A reputable inspector will point out flaws and may have prior knowledge regarding the property.

Answer: Yes
Explanation: If unconvinced of the capability of the inspector, a person should call around for comparison.

Answer: Not sure
Explanation: Depending on relationship with agent.

Answer: No, it is a conflict of interest
Explanation: The listing agent will provide a list of inspectors for you to choose from. It is against the rules of the Texas Real Estate Commission for a real estate agent to recommend any one company.

Answer: Yes
Explanation: You should take into account their opinion and also do research on your own as well.

Answer: Yes
Explanation: Always do your own research prior to hiring a Home Inspector

Answer: No, it is a conflict of interest
Explanation: The buyers agent can recommend home inspectors to their clients. The agent should give you the contact information for more than one inspector.

Answer: Yes
Explanation: Yes if you want to be approved for the financing. If you want someone to be honest maybe find your own.

Answer: Not sure
Explanation: Your listing agent will most likely have names of home inspectors and there is nothing wrong with using them. I would say that you should still take some time and research inspectors on your own.

Answer: No, it is a conflict of interest
Explanation: We have our own unbiased certified home inspectors to serve our personal clients best interests.

Answer: Yes
Explanation: To me, doing the report for the buyer, seller or investor will get the same unbiased report.

Answer: Yes
Explanation: This is not a problem as long as you trust your agent, and there is no undisclosed financial relationship between agent and inspector.

Answer: Yes
Explanation: All realtors have a list of inspectors they can give but it is up to the client to choose - the Realtor will not pick the inspector.

Answer: No, it is a conflict of interest
Explanation: The listing agent looking out for home sellers and trying to get the home sold for top dollar. The your agent the buyers agent can provide a recommendation because they are supposed to have your best interest. I recommend finding the home inspector on your own.

Answer: No, it is a conflict of interest
Explanation: It is generally a good idea to select your own home inspector. While most realtors are ethical, the mutual business opportunities that exist between a real estate agent and a home inspector whome they have a relationship with can cause a conflict of interest. Is it best to do your own research -- use sites like Yelp, Angieslist or ask your network of friends when selecting a home inspector.

Answer: Yes
Explanation: As long as you use the listing agent for the Buyer (usually you) there should not be an issue.

Answer: No, it is a conflict of interest
Explanation: This would be a conflict of interest in a transaction, unless the seller is conducting the inspection prior to listing the property to make necessary repairs before the home goes on the market.

Answer: Not sure
Explanation: It really is up to you. If you don't know a home inspector and want to use one that is suggested that is fine. If by chance you know someone you like to use or just want to find one yourself then that is what you should do. When listing or buying a home you should use whichever professional you feel most comfortable with.

Answer: No, it is a conflict of interest
Explanation: You need a a good home inspector, one that's easy to deal with and who will explain the property features to you. One that your buyer realtor has dealt with in the past is sure to have the skills required. Steer clear of one recommended by the listing agent as that one may be biased in favor of the seller.

Answer: No, it is a conflict of interest
Explanation: Your agent should give you 2-3 home inspection companies to call . You should call all of them and see whom you like the best.

Answer: Not sure
Explanation: I am an independent inspector and have real estate professionals that refer me to their clients. I do not receive any monetary incentives from them. I can not speak for other inspectors though.

Answer: No, it is a conflict of interest
Explanation: In my opinion, there could be a potential conflict of interest. I would feel much more comfortable utilizing a licensed inspector that I could recommend, or.....one that you know.

Answer: Yes
Explanation: As long as the agent is referring a professional home inspector and there is no conflict of interest or collusion. Many agents typically refer 3 home inspectors to the client, and let the client choose which inspector they want to use.

Answer: No, it is a conflict of interest
Explanation: I believe you should not use listing agents recommendations there might be a conflict of interest.

Answer: Not sure
Explanation: Some people are comfortable with their realtor's recommended home inspector. Some people would rather do some research and choose and inspector based on references and public profile.

Answer: No, it is a conflict of interest
Explanation: Buyer should use their own Inspectors, possibly recommendations from the selling/buyer broker

Answer: No, it is a conflict of interest
Explanation: The listing agent represents the home owners,not the buyers.

Answer: Yes
Explanation: I believe referrals are a great asset to your business because it allows you to get information on a service provider from previous clients. It can save you time and money and put you in touch with the right person for your business.

Answer: Yes
Explanation: In most cases the agent has worked with multiple inspectors and will have more insight to the competency of an inspector. Most home owners have had a very few chances to work with a home inspector so it is much harder to know how good they are.

Answer: Yes
Explanation: For the most part, Agents deal with the day to day fundamentals of home selling and buying. Why it is probably best to research the inspector yourself. Most agents are hired by our clients and therefore should be trusted or not.

Answer: Yes
Explanation: Home inspectors are required to give an impartial review of all the major systems and the overall condition of the house. It is against the standards of practice to sway the sale of the home one way or the other.

Answer: No, it is a conflict of interest
Explanation: The use of a Inspector recommended by a listing agent could lead to a bias on the inspectors part towards the listing agent in order to retain the recommendations coming from the agent.

Answer: Yes
Explanation: In my experience, licensed professionals like real estate agents and home inspectors should not risk their integrity for a paycheck. There is too much at risk. I am expected to perform a home inspection for my client, not the agent.

Answer: Not sure
Explanation: Some realtors offer a list of several inspectors for their client to use, if a realtor pushed one of the other, the realtor may be offering a biased opinion

Answer: No, it is a conflict of interest
Explanation: Best recommended practice is to find your own inspector, they are neutral. often an inspector recommended by agent knows what will slow the buying process and avoid some of the details so that it will not slow the buying process, we all like to live the fast food life style, but this is not the area you want to apply speed, it will often take me up to 6-8 hours for a home inspection, if i see new paint it could be longer. it is my job to find the hidden problems in a home.... nothing but the facts dano! In the state of Colorado it is not necessary to have a certified inspection what i mean by that is most of the home inspectors are not certified. I would only look at certified home inspectors. As a ASHI certified inspector we have completed 120 hour of training and we are certified we speak house! we are required to completed continued training every year.

Answer: No, it is a conflict of interest
Explanation: It is best to shop for inspector or if there is a recommendation. Word of mouth is a good indicator

Answer: Not sure
Explanation: Some times it can be a conflict of interest.

Answer: Yes
Explanation: The listing agent should know of some good ones that they have used for a while. Just ask if they offer an inspection warranty with the inspection.

Answer: Not sure
Explanation: It depends. If a buyer is using an agent that is not familiar with the area, the listing agent may be able to refer a reputable home inspector in the area. It is always a good idea to do your research and check the company out online.

Answer: Not sure
Explanation: Your agent should recommend 2 or 3 inspectors. Your inspector should have your best interest in mind. A inspector should not feel obligated to the agent.

Answer: Not sure
Explanation: It depends on the particular situation. It can perfectly fine in some cases. Maybe not, in others. A buyer should really be represented by an agent, who will act as their advocate

Answer: Yes
Explanation: A good inspector is not swayed by the number of inspections he or she may get from a particular listing agent. A good inspector will generate a honest and non-biased report based solely on their findings at the time of the inspection.

Answer: No, it is a conflict of interest
Explanation: No, ethically speaking that would be a conflict of intrest. The selling agent is going to try and make the sale of the property go through. That inspector may not have the buyers best intrest at heart.

Answer: Yes
Explanation: check credentials

Answer: Yes
Explanation: As a Certified Home Inspector, I am bound by a professional code of conduct and not influenced by any outside interests.

Answer: No, it is a conflict of interest
Explanation: A home inspector should be independent.

Answer: Yes
Explanation: Listing agents can be helpful in supplying you with names of home inspectors in your area and should supply you with multiple names to select from. Do your homework and check out the inspectors in your area. Their website should list where they have been trained, certifications they have, and the services they offer.

Answer: No, it is a conflict of interest
Explanation: Illinois rule

Answer: No, it is a conflict of interest
Explanation: A home buyer should be certain that they are getting an objective inspection always.