Home Inspection  Promote Your Business
Home Inspection
ProMatch
Directory
Cost Report
 

When during the home buying process should a home inspector be contacted?

Before putting an offer
18%
Right after putting an offer (include an inspection contingency)
25%
Once the offer is accepted (include an inspection contingency)
54%
Not sure
1%
Get Free Quotes Today!
Question: When during the home buying process should a home inspector be contacted?
Top Answer (54% of 310 votes): Once the offer is accepted (include an inspection contingency).

Answer: Once the offer is accepted (include an inspection contingency)
Explanation: It's not unusual for potential buyers to start looking for an inspector before a contract is accepted, to gauge lead times and budgeting requirements. However, an inspector should not be contacted to set up an inspection until an offer has been accepted.
Integra Inspection Services, LLC
Answer: Once the offer is accepted (include an inspection contingency)
Explanation: Once you know you can buy the home and can get serious about the details. Plus once you have submitted an accepted offer you've established good faith in buying the home and no one's time is wasted
Structsure Pro Home Inspections
Answer: Right after putting an offer (include an inspection contingency)
Explanation: If you have a short inspection contingency period, it's a great idea to reach out to an inspector before putting in your offer to make sure they can accommodate your timeframe. However, if you have a 7-day window for example, contacting the inspector after the offer has been submitted or accepted is fine too.
Home Scan Inspections
ProMatcher
Answer: Before putting an offer
Explanation: Engaging a home inspector is a crucial step in the home buying process. Ideally, a home inspector should be contacted after the seller has accepted your offer, but before the closing of the deal. This period, commonly known as the due diligence period, allows the buyer to perform inspections and review their findings. The timing of inspections is critical because it can greatly influence the buyer's decision-making process. If major issues are uncovered during the inspection, the buyer may choose to negotiate repairs with the seller, request a price reduction, or in some cases, even withdraw their offer. Therefore, it is in the best interest of the buyer to schedule inspections early enough to allow ample time for any potential renegotiations. However, if a buyer feels confident about the condition of the property and is comfortable forgoing an immediate inspection, it is also possible to schedule one after the purchase. While this approach may be acceptable in certain circumstances, it is generally not recommended. Conducting inspections post-purchase could lead to unexpected costs for repairs or maintenance that could have otherwise been negotiated with the seller prior to closing. Therefore, regardless of whether your real estate agent has contingents to the inspection during the purchasing agreement or not, it is prudent to have a home inspection conducted before finalizing the purchase. The objective of inspections is not only to uncover potential issues with the property but also to provide the buyer with peace of mind knowing that they are making a sound investment.
Ground Zero Home Inspections
Answer: Right after putting an offer (include an inspection contingency)
Explanation: This would be the most appropriate timing
S&B Property Inspections LLC
Answer: Before putting an offer
Explanation: It is best to select your inspector before you put in an offer. That way you are not rushed and can learn more about what they can do for you. Don't accept a cheap inspector that your relator recommended. It is not worth the money spent.
1st Choice Inspection
ProMatcher
Answer: Once the offer is accepted (include an inspection contingency)
Explanation: Many banks will not loan the money for the purchase of a home unless it has been properly inspected, this protects the consumer and the bank as well.
Pinkerton Inspection Agency LLC
Answer: Once the offer is accepted (include an inspection contingency)
Explanation: Most Home Inspections are scheduled about 10 days before closing.
Preferred Real Estate Inspections, LLC
Answer: Before putting an offer
Explanation: We inspect at different stages. Some people want an inspection before putting in a bid and others wait till their bid has been accepted. It's upto your personal preferences.
A Affordable Home Inspector LLC
ProMatcher
Answer: Right after putting an offer (include an inspection contingency)
Explanation: A home inspector should be contacted after you put an offer on a property. You should also contact a Roofing Inspector as well to perform a thorough roof system analysis, preferably photo-documented.
Integrity Roofing Services
Answer: Before putting an offer
Explanation: A foreclosed property should have an inspection immediately, and once a week until property sells.
Harris Business Professionals
Answer: Before putting an offer
Explanation: The buyer will want the report on the condition of the home before the buyer makes an offer. The condition will greatly impact this process.
Michael Moffitt, Moffitt Property Inspections & Consulting
ProMatcher
Answer: Once the offer is accepted (include an inspection contingency)
Explanation: The offer should be contingent on the home passing a professional home inspection.
Wise-Up Home Inspection, LLC
Answer: Right after putting an offer (include an inspection contingency)
Explanation: A home inspection should be one of the first priorities after seriously considering buying a home. The sooner you understand the potential issues or other drawbacks, the easier it is to negotiate or fully consider all the factors in your buying decision. The cost of an inspection is nothing compared to making repairs you didn't expect.
Mountain View Inspection Services
Answer: Once the offer is accepted (include an inspection contingency)
Explanation: An inspector is not allowed on most properties until your offer is accepted in writing by the seller so it is best to wait till you have a fully executed contract before scheduling your inspection. It does not hurt to call and interview several inspectors ahead of time. Ask them pointed questions not just how much to you charge. A low price does not usually get you a good inspection.
Space City Inspections, LLC
ProMatcher
Answer: Before putting an offer
Explanation: Always have a home inspected before making an offer so that you know the condition of your investment. Certain major defects in a home may change your mind on making an offer on the home, or at least give you some additional knowledge with which to negotiate.
Shedhorn Inspection Services, LLC
Answer: Right after putting an offer (include an inspection contingency)
Explanation: Easy
Straight Street Building/Home Inspections, P.L.L.C.
Answer: Once the offer is accepted (include an inspection contingency)
Explanation: Once your offer is accepted is a good time to scheduled and secure your home inspection with Golden Star Home Inspections. However, it is never to early to check around and find the right inspection company for you and your needs! Call today! 509-720-6279
Golden Star Home Inspections
ProMatcher
Answer: Before putting an offer
Explanation: I know that 10 business days for your home inspection window can go very fast. And during these days, your head is probably spinning also. So let’s just take it easy, breath and focus. During your home inspection window, you may need numerous inspections depending upon the home and your particular situation. Getting the home inspected is only the first step in the process. There may need to be systems that need further inspection, such as the Electrical or Plumbing systems. Scheduling other contractors will take additional time. In my experience, I have found that the four most common contractors you would need to contact are; an Electrician, Plumber, Roofer and HVAC (Heating & Cooling) Technician. And to be honest, these contractors will probably be the most important that you will need throughout your home ownership. So, it is recommended to find a like minded, quality contractor that you might use for many years to come.
Reality Property Inspections
Answer: Once the offer is accepted (include an inspection contingency)
Explanation: Its not wise to do anything until the offer is accepted.
Superior Inspection Services
Answer: Once the offer is accepted (include an inspection contingency)
Explanation: Typically the home inspection is scheduled once the buyer's offer is accepted by the seller.
HomeScope Property Inspection Services LLC
ProMatcher
Answer: Before putting an offer
Explanation: Contacting inspector for availability, scheduling, pricing, questions and answers.
H&R PROFESSIONAL INSPECTIONS
Answer: Once the offer is accepted (include an inspection contingency)
Explanation: Make sure we get your inspection done before your inspection period is up.
TnT Home Inspections
Answer: Right after putting an offer (include an inspection contingency)
Explanation: This is the best way to protect the buyer.
Appaloosa Home Inspection
ProMatcher
Answer: Right after putting an offer (include an inspection contingency)
Explanation: Once you make an offer and put down the earnest money you should get an inspection done. This way you know exactly what you are buying. The inspection report will give you another tool to negotiate with and provide a piece of mind that you are making a good purchase.
Moran Property Inspections
Answer: Right after putting an offer (include an inspection contingency)
Explanation: Inspection contingencies help buyers should adverse condition(s) be discovered, it also helps buyer to negotiate with seller for a solution to the problem.
MDJ Inspection Services LLC
Answer: Before putting an offer
Explanation: Allot of times a home inspector can be a very powerful tool. There have been many times our clients would be set on a house but not the price. When an issue is found it can be used to re negotiate the price in fairness for both parties.
Homeinspections123
ProMatcher
Answer: Once the offer is accepted (include an inspection contingency)
Explanation: Follow Real Estate parameters state by state, county by county.
North State Inspections
Answer: Right after putting an offer (include an inspection contingency)
Explanation: This timing provides the most protection for the customer.
Kairos Home Inspections
Answer: Right after putting an offer (include an inspection contingency)
Explanation: Always make sure to get that inspection in time so there is time for the contingency or negotiation of any repairs that were required.
Royalty Home Solutions, Inc
ProMatcher
Answer: Not sure
Explanation: You may want to interview several inspectors when you start the home buying process. Find one you are comfortable with and ask about their scheduling. Once you have an offer in, call your inspector to schedule your inspection. You may only have a few days depending on your market.
My Choice Home Inspectors LLC
Answer: Once the offer is accepted (include an inspection contingency)
Explanation: Once an offer is excepted there is a 17-day period that is an ideal time to find out the condition of the home you are buying and to avoid the potential loss of your deposit should you decided not to go through with the sale. Your agent can advise you further on the process.
Inspection Pro
Answer: Once the offer is accepted (include an inspection contingency)
Explanation: Once the offer has been accepted from the seller, it is the due diligence of the buyer to have the home inspection done in a specific time frame to negotiate any repairs or problems found during the said inspection. The buyer has the option to back out of the sale during this contingency to get there earnest money back.
Meadow Brook Home Inspection
ProMatcher
Answer: Before putting an offer
Explanation: home could be structually, health or fire unsafe
Huskey Home Inspection, LLC
Answer: Right after putting an offer (include an inspection contingency)
Explanation: The report is your personal property and does not have to be shared with anyone.
Able Home Inspections
Answer: Once the offer is accepted (include an inspection contingency)
Explanation: We would always recommend asking for an inspection contingency upon the seller accepting your offer. This is for your protection and peace of mind.
Rhino Property Inspections, LLC
ProMatcher
Answer: Once the offer is accepted (include an inspection contingency)
Explanation: The inspection service should be able to schedule an inspection in a timely manner to accommodate all parties.
Millyard Home Inspection
Answer: Once the offer is accepted (include an inspection contingency)
Explanation: If the client is not sure if they can afford the house it makes no sense to have an inspection performed.
Contractors Corp.
Answer: Before putting an offer
Explanation: As an informed consumer, you want to know the status and condition of the home prior to making an offer. A home inspection report can be a leverage tool for discounts or contingencies on the offer.
TAP Inspections
ProMatcher
Answer: Once the offer is accepted (include an inspection contingency)
Explanation: It is best to have a accepted offer before you request an inspection so you don't pay out any money on a home that you may not even get.
Gilded Leaf Home Inspections LLC
Answer: Once the offer is accepted (include an inspection contingency)
Explanation: The inspection shall be ordered right immediately after the offer is accepted. Normally the buyer has at least 10 days to do his Due Diligence. If they missed out that mark they will lose the opportunity of getting a home inspection. So therefore, the inspection shall be book ASAP.
HOME INSPECTOR USA
Answer: Right after putting an offer (include an inspection contingency)
Explanation: When putting an offer in on a home it is a good idea to start contacting inspectors right away. This will give you more time to choose an inspector you are comfortable with, and get an idea of their schedule in the upcoming days. After your offer is accepted the clock on the option period starts ticking. If during the insepction issues that need further evaluation or quotes to have fixed or replaced are uncovered it may take another day or two to get a qualified contractor out. If you are already at the end of the option period you may have to proceed without knowing what a major issue will cost to fix.
Morrow Inspection Services, PLLC
ProMatcher
Answer: Once the offer is accepted (include an inspection contingency)
Explanation: Once your offer is accepted is when it is time to start shopping for an inspector. In NY your inspection contingency typically gives you several days to get the home inspected and review the results. Your agent should have a lot of experience with this step of the process and will usually be helpful in getting access to the home.
InFocus Inspection
Answer: Right after putting an offer (include an inspection contingency)
Explanation: Some inspectors don't like getting called until the client is out of attorney review. I actually like to get a call during the attorney review so that the client has time to speak to me and feel comfortable scheduling an inspection with me. I usually like to wait until the client is out of attorney review to actually schedule the date and time for the inspection. I see delays in the attorney review process all the time.
Best Choice Inspections
Answer: Right after putting an offer (include an inspection contingency)
Explanation: Once you have found the home you like you will put in an offer. Once inspected the the inspection process begins. Make sure there is a inspection clause in your offer
At Ease Home Inspection
ProMatcher
Answer: Once the offer is accepted (include an inspection contingency)
Explanation: When the offer is accepted with contingencies the inspection phase should begin.
Riverbend Property Inspections LLC
Answer: Once the offer is accepted (include an inspection contingency)
Explanation: The contingency will allow you to renegotiate or have things fix before closing. We like to push pre-listing home inspections.
Mosher Home Inspection Service, LLC
Answer: Once the offer is accepted (include an inspection contingency)
Explanation: You can talk to an inspector even have one picked out before your offer is accepted but you won't be able to book inspection until the offer is accepted.
HomeRun Certified Inspections,LLC
ProMatcher
Answer: Before putting an offer
Explanation: A home inspector is just as important as your real estate agent and your choice should not be under the gun. Check out inspectors before you even purchase a house
Honest Home Inspections & Milwaukee Mold Inspector
Answer: Before putting an offer
Explanation: Build a relation with your inspector for building trust in their knowledge and even to ask for some ideas of stuff to stay away from in the shopping process.
Master Building Inspectors
Answer: Once the offer is accepted (include an inspection contingency)
Explanation: You should have accepted offer to purchase before scheduling a home inspection. Otherwise you're wasting my time and your money.
House and Home Inspection Services
ProMatcher
Answer: Before putting an offer
Explanation: For a quicker sale we recommend a Seller's inspection before the home is even listed. But we do accept many buyer's inspections regardless of the time frame. The drawback to contacting an inspector after you make an offer is that you may not be able to get an appointment before the deadline if it is a busy time of year.
Home Inspection Solutions
Answer: Before putting an offer
Explanation: A home inspection could possibly save the potential home buyer thousand of dollars in unforseen repairs.
Ray REI
Answer: Once the offer is accepted (include an inspection contingency)
Explanation: A home inspector should be contacted once the offer is accepted including an inspection contingency.
J. Michael Simon, LLC
ProMatcher
Answer: Before putting an offer
Explanation: We recommend choosing your inspector before you make an offer- this way you can be aware of availability and price before you get started- we can also give you some pointers on what to look for.
MTK Inspection Services
Answer: Once the offer is accepted (include an inspection contingency)
Explanation: Once your offer has been accepted, your next step is to hire a home inspector.
Randall Property Inspections, Inc.
Answer: Once the offer is accepted (include an inspection contingency)
Explanation: Usually the life cycle of a real estate transaction has the inspection following an accepted offer which is the time the buyer would contact the inspector.
Investor Home Inspections
ProMatcher
Answer: Right after putting an offer (include an inspection contingency)
Explanation: Base your offer with the contingency that you would like a home inspection. An Inspector is trained to look objectively at a property. They do not get distracted by decorations of staging. They are looking for the functionality of all the systems of the property, with recommendations in areas of concern.
ABC Home Inspections LLC
Answer: Before putting an offer
Explanation: To protect your investment know what deficiency there are before you make an offer.
Your Home Property Consultants
Answer: Once the offer is accepted (include an inspection contingency)
Explanation: We feel it is best to get an inspection once you have an accepted offer. This way you are not out the cost of the inspection before even getting your foot in the door. This also shows that both parties are dedicated and can work through any inspection findings together.
The Home Inspectors
ProMatcher
Answer: Before putting an offer
Explanation: never make on offer before you have First American provide you with a FREE inspection. I prefer to go in AFTER your home inspector. this way you can see what they missed. We look for the issues that your home inspector does not.
First American Cleaning & Restoration
Answer: Right after putting an offer (include an inspection contingency)
Explanation: The best time to contract a home inspector is before you male the offer. This way a hone buyer will know going into the deal what if any issues there are with the home
House detective
Answer: Before putting an offer
Explanation: It is best to have a home inspected before the offer, this will give the buyer a better understanding of hidden repairs they may need repair and also help to better understand the value of the home.
A Balance Home Inspection
ProMatcher
Answer: Right after putting an offer (include an inspection contingency)
Explanation: this protects the buyer by having a clause that gives the buyer an out if major problems arise.
American Home & Environmental
Answer: Before putting an offer
Explanation: I say before putting an offer on a house. Typically people wait til after an offer is accepted and contract signed. Then you find out you have 10 days or so to have the home inspected. Shop for a Home Inspector like you would for a house. ONce your ready for the inspection you already know whom you will have inspect it.
Rife Home Inspections LLC
Answer: Not sure
Explanation: a home can be inspected at any time with permissions
Thomas Property Services
ProMatcher
Answer: Right after putting an offer (include an inspection contingency)
Explanation: An inspection is also a good idea if you are selling your home.
Henson Home Inspections
Answer: Right after putting an offer (include an inspection contingency)
Explanation: My advise is to put in an offer with an inspection contingency. Work with your realtor to determine the best timing.
Coast Home Inspection
Answer: Before putting an offer
Explanation: Having a home inspection prior to the offer gives the buyer information to use in the negotiation process.
Spire Home Inspection
ProMatcher
Answer: Once the offer is accepted (include an inspection contingency)
Explanation: Generally, once under contract, you have a set amount of time to have an inspection performed. It is important to have an inspection contingency that will allow you to pull out of the contract or re-negotiate the price if necessary.
North Dynamic Inspections
Answer: Once the offer is accepted (include an inspection contingency)
Explanation: The parties should should agree on price and terms first and then have a contingency that the home is in good repair.
Corley Home Inspections, LLC
Answer: Once the offer is accepted (include an inspection contingency)
Explanation: Once offer is accepted, this way no monies are spent fro nothing
G M M Property Inspections
ProMatcher
Answer: Before putting an offer
Explanation: If home has obvious damage / repair needs that lead to belief that further repair may be needed, get an inspection "prior" to the offer to reduce the need to re-negotiate the sale once accepted. This may not be accepted on a preferred condition home, however, should be acceptable on a slow mover, handy man special type property. A good, thorough inspection will help you obtain the info needed to put pencil to paper.
Patrick Erb Home Services INSPECTION AL#HI3083
Answer: Once the offer is accepted (include an inspection contingency)
Explanation: Please give the inspector 5 to 7 business day to schedule the inspection. Expecting an inspection the next day or the day after calling the inspector generally leads to unexperienced inspector doing the inspection. Please insure that the utilities are on at the property is ready for inspection.
AHI Residential & Commercial Inspections
Answer: Right after putting an offer (include an inspection contingency)
Explanation: In Rhode Island the buyer has ten business days from signing the purchase and sales agreement to have all inspections performed. The sooner you make arrangements the less likely you will be unable to have the inspector of your choice work for you.
JDM.Services
ProMatcher
Get Free Quotes Today!
Find Local Pros
Free Home Inspection Services Cost Estimates

Related Questions

How Much Does a Home Inspection Cost?

Can a home inspector perform a septic inspection?Top answer: Yes

What's the Difference Between a Home Inspector and a Home Appraiser?

Where is the best place to put a carbon monoxide detector in my home?

Does a carbon monoxide detector detect cigarette smoke?Top answer: Never



Free Cost Estimates   |   Home Inspectors Directory   |   Home Inspection Cost Report   |   Free Business Listing



All users of ProMatcher.com are subject to our terms of use.

Home   |   Articles & Videos   |   Affiliates   |   Networking Groups   |   Search by Category

Terms of Use   |   Privacy   |   Partner Network   |   Your Privacy Choices   |   About Us   |   Contact Us   |   Member Login

©2003-2025 - VentureStreet, LLC

Join Our Business Network