Finding an inspector

You should hire a certified, professional home inspector to conduct a thorough home inspection. How do you choose one? Along with agents, lenders and other home pros, internachi has lists of inspectors with reviews. You can use the Agent Finder tool to find all kinds of real estate pros, including home inspectors. Get recommendations, check their online reviews and study their websites. Get a sample report to make sure what they will produce is thorough. Your agent probably has suggestions but you don't need to use them.

You will want to be clear on exactly what is and isn't included in the inspection price. Will they test for lead paint? How about asbestos in the ceiling tiles? Is that part of the basic inspection or will it cost more? The price, though you will pay it, is probably the least of your concerns. Most inspectors are in a similar range of $600-$800 anyway and any fluctuation is a small price to pay for what you will get. Early in the home buying process start researching inspectors and have at least a couple in mind, especially if the market is busy. You'll need to be sure you can get an inspection scheduled within your contract timeline, so if your first choice isn't available, you need someone waiting in the wings.