🔍 A Good Inspector Matters. A lot.
Happy Monday!
Here is an Idea, an Action, and a Question to consider this week.
Idea
A good inspector matters. A lot.
At the beginning of my real estate career, I accompanied my inspector on a job. I shadowed him so I could see what he did and how much effort he put into his work. I was effectively interviewing for my Core Four, and I knew I needed a great inspector. And there was no way I’d know if the inspector was of quality without seeing him/her in action.
The weather was harsh: 40 degrees, rainy, and windy (which is frigid in Florida). Despite the conditions, he thoroughly examined the property's exterior for over an hour. As a Floridian, I struggled with the cold, stepping out for brief periods before retreating inside to warm up (granted, my flip flops didn’t help the situation). His dedication in such challenging weather impressed me, revealing more about his character than any conversation could. I added him to my roster, and I’ve worked with him ever since.
A skilled inspector is crucial in real estate. They protect your client—and by extension, your reputation—by identifying potential issues, like mold or roof leaks, that could cause regret after purchase. They also provide balance, understanding the need to close deals while ensuring client safety. For instance, they can alleviate client concerns over minor issues highlighted in the inspection report, like the absence of GFCIs, by explaining how easily and cheaply these can be fixed.
Your inspector's availability and responsiveness can be a significant advantage. In a competitive market with multiple offers, a short inspection period can make your client's offer stand out. A reliable inspector who can accommodate such timelines is invaluable.
Experience in the industry is a key trait for an inspector. Whether they've been in the field for years or have a background in construction, their expertise is essential to avoid oversight due to inexperience.
My inspector, for instance, may not work for the city or county, but his knowledge is extensive. He's always responsive to my queries about building codes or specific property issues. If he doesn't have an immediate answer, he's honest about it and helps me find it.
As an investor-agent, a strong relationship with your inspector can also open doors to off-market opportunities. Inspectors often learn about properties coming to market through their interactions with homeowners and investors. One of my inspectors even told me about a mobile home park for sale during an inspection, leading to a successful purchase.
A good inspector is more than just a technical expert; they are a crucial ally in the real estate industry, offering guidance, reliability, and even leads for new opportunities.
Action
Shadow your inspector during your next inspection. Get a feel for how they work and what they do. Then, decide: Is this person a good fit for me, or should I interview someone else?
Question
How likely are you to refer your inspector to someone else?
See you next week,
Matt “Roar” Gardner
Real estate investor-agent, Author of Supersonic Real Estate: Light Your Afterburner to Accelerate Your Investor-Agent Career (Coming Soon!), and keynote speaker.
