As a sales agent, I've never had a buyer NOT tag along with the inspector. In fact, if the buyer starts talking to me or leaves the room, the inspector usually calls him/her back to point out something. Just the way it's done in different areas I guess.

I always tell my buyers to go on the inspection and explain to them it's a very important part of the process. I also go to all of the home inspections because the buyer might not point something out, but I'll see it and point it out and having more eyes looking at the place can reveal more flaws. Depending on the flaws we can negotiate for better terms, cash back, repairs, etc...I don't ever want my buyer to think I'm against them or forcing them into a sale.

I also urge buyers to ask questions when they have doubts or questions about certain parts of the house. The home inspector I recommend is someone I have complete confidence in that he will do a great job and will be able to answer all questions that come up.

Just remember he is working for you. Ask questions, lots of them, if he is a good inspector he will be happy to share his knowledge with you, walk with your home inspector, see whay he sees, and hear what he thinks.
But give him distance when; on the roof, crawlspace and electrical inspection is taking place. this is for your safety.
Good Luck!!!


Thomson Alliance

Home Inspectors Inspection Hawaii, Oahu
http://www.thomsonalliance.com
http://www.myspace.com/hawaiihomeinspector

Buyers should always be present for the home inspection. You will learn more about your potential home and it gives you a great way to interact and ask questions of your home inspector.

It’s very important for the inspector to have the client present during the inspection. The purpose of the inspection is more than just to find problems but to educate the buyer. An inspector that is to busy to spend time informing/educating a client shouldn’t be an inspector.

Often times we end up educating the buyer and the agent about the house with good information, but we are there to inspect first and foremost.

If we miss something and we are called before the board to explain and defend ourselves they are never concerned about how we educated the buyer.

I am also seeing more REfirms not allowing their agents to be present during the inspection, before and after fine, but because of their interference they do not want to held accountable for distracting the inspector.

Not having the buyer present though just means you double the time later in phone calls etc, explaining what you could have in half the time if they were present.

My E&O for Home Inspections is around 5 times what my RE E&O is. Really expensive and great motivation not to lose sight of why I am there.

I don't know inspectors who have anything against the client stay with them while they do their job and ask them questions, if yours don't want to do that it means you have to change the inspector.

Yes it always good to ask questions and follow the inspector. If you don't ask you won't know. The Inspector will usually point out preventative mantainence stuff you should do.