In 2007 a novice New York real estate investor was advised to hire a reputable, insured, home inspection company prior to purchasing a property located in one of the city's best neighborhoods. However, the investor elected to ignore the advice provided, insisting on employing a local, well known, uninsured company for the sake of minimizing cost.
Prior to the inspection date, my client and I spoke with the owner of the area inspection company selected, to request an experienced inspector. This request was made because the property displayed signs of prior movement and/or settlement distress. The owner understood our concern, and assured us that he would send his best representative to assess the property.
Two days later, an inspector arrived, and all seemed to be well. The company sent an older gentleman, who shared his qualifications, as well as discussed his years of experience prior to performing service. We liked the stern manner in which he presented himself, and noticed that his instruments were both well organized and seemed to be current. His communication was proper, as he spoke with the client throughout the inspection, identifying issues, and answering questions asked. The service concluded with a hand written report, and the inspector's verbal summary. The inspector said that the property, overall, was in excellent condition. He said that the property was solid, and fully settled, so we need not be concerned about future movement. The only items cited, were common and of low cost.
With the good report in hand, my investor proceeded to satisfy the purchase agreement. Immediately after settlement contractors were hired to perform the items cited, as well as renovate the entire home. The kitchen received an expensive makeover which boasted the best marble, granite, and top of the line stainless steel appliances. The basement, bathroom, and bedrooms were also sprinkled with luxurious upgrades and added features. To complete the renovation, the investor installed new windows.
Eight months after the renovation, I received a disturbing call from my investor. My client could not figure out why two brand new windows were cracking. After gathering more information and verifying that the windows had indeed been professionally installed, I picked up the phone to ask a member of Inspect-It 1st to come take a look at the property. I did not get good news.
I was told that the beautiful, brick, end unit, sitting in a prime location, was no good. The previous inspector made an inaccurate assessment about the foundation. The property would not only shift, but split over time. In addition to the foundational disaster, the Inspect-It 1st agent also noted a few other items that the first inspector missed. In conclusion, I was told that the property would either have to undergo an extensive, time consuming, costly, structural engineering process to correct the situation; or that it would eventually end up being condemned by the city because the signs of visible damage would increase.
Not using inspect-it-first, or any licensed, insured, home inspection company in the beginning, ended up being incredibly costly. Though my client admitted that I had performed my duties well, and even insisted that they use Inspect-It 1st or another insured company, prior to purchase - because I did not override my clients wishes, we both lost. My client lost tens of thousands of dollars renovating a property built on a bad foundation, and I lost a client, who previously, confidently, recommended me to a large pool of purchase ready investors.
Do not make the mistake I made. If you are a broker, or agent, and your client tells you that they do not want to use a professional, insured, licensed, inspection company, simply because they wish to save cost - insist by paying the difference in price so your client gets an inspection you trust. Sure it will cost you a little bit of money up front, but this practice, in the long run, will make you a lot of money. People enjoy sending referrals to professionals who demonstrate passion about protecting their investment.
But with that said, if you are a purchaser, who does not have a representative who is passionate about leading you to a good, licensed, insured, home inspector - I urge you to take charge. There are many areas that you can shave cost, but this is not one of them. Remember the old adage, you get what you pay for. With that said, I recommend Inspect-It 1st. They are accurate in their assessments, and insured for your protection. Take charge of your life; lead yourself to success, by working with Wright team of Inspect-It 1st!
— Hailey Milan
