Located in Cedar Springs and serving Western Michigan
Over 35 Years of Experience
Walk-In Appointments Available
Local and Family Owned
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Choosing a home inspector can be a daunting task. Check out some of the questions you need to ask before selecting the home inspector you want to work with. Stout Group LTD is a family owned business with a real estate license.
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There are many associations for home inspectors, but some groups confer questionable credentials or certifications in return for nothing more than a fee. Make sure the association your home inspector names is a reputable, nonprofit trade organization.
Also, make sure the organization complies with a well-recognized standard of practice and code of ethics, such as those adopted by the American Society of Home Inspectors or the National Association of Home Inspectors.
Ask inspectors how long they’ve been working in the field and how many inspections they’ve completed. Also, ask for customer referrals. New inspectors may be highly qualified, but they should describe their training and indicate whether they work with a more experienced partner.
Inspectors’ commitment to continuing training is a good measure of their professionalism and service. Advanced knowledge is especially important for older homes or those with unique elements requiring additional or updated training.
Home inspection is very different from inspecting commercial buildings or a construction site. Ask whether the inspector has experience with your type of property or feature. The inspector should be able to provide sample inspection reports for a similar property. If they recommend further evaluation from outside contractors on multiple issues, it may indicate they’re not comfortable with their own knowledge level.
Some state laws and trade associations allow the inspector to provide repair work on problems uncovered during the inspection. However, other states and associations forbid it as a conflict of interest.
On average, an inspector working alone inspects a typical single-family house in two to three hours; anything less may not be thorough.
Costs range from $300 to $500 but can vary dramatically depending on your region, the size and age of the house, and the scope of services. Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true.
The answer should be yes. A home inspection is a valuable educational opportunity for the buyer and a refusal should raise a red flag.
Choose the Right Home Inspector
Call us today to learn more.
(616) 890-4759
Newaygo
Allegan
Muskegon
Montcalm
Kent
Ottawa
Ionia
and surrounding areas
Mon - Fri 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Sat & Sun Appointment only
Extended Hours are Available by Appointment Only
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