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Ask the Expert: How can I guide clients through the home inspection process?

12/27/2017 10:21:32 AM
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Today's Ask the Expert column features Adam Long, president of HomeTeam Inspection Service.
 
Q: What can be done to guide clients through the home inspection process?
 
A: After being in business for 25 years and performing over a million inspections, HomeTeam Inspection Service has identified the top ways to ensure a smoother home inspection, contributing to happier clients and a better outcome.
 
Make It Convenient
 
The home inspection process—from scheduling to report delivery—should be convenient for everyone involved. Online scheduling, text messaging and electronic delivery of reports make convenience possible when it comes to the home inspection. If a home inspection company isn't providing this, clients are missing out on the best possible experience.
 
Don't Keep Them Waiting
 
Ten years ago, it was commonplace to wait five days or more for a home inspection, but today, consumers want it now. Plus, consumers are busier than ever today. They not only want a home inspection that can be performed soon, but also one that can be performed in half the time of the traditional three- to -four-hour inspection. That's a large part of what makes HomeTeam successful. Our team approach allows for a faster inspection and more appointment slots each day.
 
Give Them Options
 
Clients only want to pay for services they need. While most home inspection companies offer a wide range of services, client needs vary, and the leading home inspection companies allow clients to schedule individual services like pest, mold and radon.
 
Ensure It's Educational
 
A home inspector will not give a pass/fail grade on a home, but will give an objective assessment on the condition of the home during the inspection. Educating the client on their new home and how to maintain it is a sign of a professional inspector. Communicating information in a non-alarming manner is critical to helping clients absorb information and make prudent decisions. An inspector that's accessible to answer questions onsite and after the inspection instills peace of mind in clients and makes them more confident in their purchase decision.
 
Deliver Accurate Reporting
 
In addition to a verbal report that the client receives onsite, the most professional inspection companies will furnish a narrative, electronic report that's emailed to the client and agent. A narrative-style report is more detailed than a checklist-style report, putting forth a clearer picture of the home with less room for interpretation. Including photos and a summary helps the client easily identify any safety concerns or areas that warrant attention.
 
For more information, please visit www.hometeam.com.
 
Reprinted with permission from RISMedia. ©2017. All rights reserved.
 

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