Today’s “Ask the Expert” column features Adam Long, President of HomeTeam Inspection Service.
Q: How can a home inspection company add value to the real estate process?
A: A home inspection is now a common practice for clients who are looking to buy or sell a home. In addition to performing a high-quality inspection, a good home inspection company adds value for all parties involved in the transaction. How?
They Understand Your Time Is Valuable
Most real estate transactions are time sensitive, and the typical home inspection can last anywhere from 2.5 – 4 hours. HomeTeam Inspection Service cuts this time nearly in half by utilizing a team of inspectors. This approach allows for more time slots available each day, and greater availability when you need an inspection.
They Utilize Technology to Simplify the Process
The home inspection process—from scheduling to report delivery—should be convenient for you and your clients. Offering several scheduling options—over the phone, online or through an app—provides greater flexibility. HomeTeam offers real estate professionals an app on their mobile phone that allows them to call or email HomeTeam, schedule an inspection online and view all past inspection reports with the click of a button.
They Offer a Full-Service Solution
Home inspection companies offer a wide range of services, starting with the basic whole house inspection and then adding additional services that include items your client may or may not need. Since different homes, different clients and different regions require different types of inspections, choose a home inspection company that offers a la carte services like pest, radon or mold inspections.
They Handle Coordination for You
Valuable time is often spent calling and coordinating various types of inspections from several different service providers. HomeTeam schedules any additional inspections for you and your clients. Therefore, you only need to make one call, or indicate the services you would like in your online booking, and they’ll be scheduled at the same time as the home inspection.
They Present Themselves as a Professional
Recommending a home inspection company with a professional brand image serves as an extension of your professionalism. Home inspection companies that show up in uniform with branded vehicles help make the client feel at ease. Be sure the home inspection company your client chooses provides email and text message reminders of the inspection time, as well as a verbal introduction to the home. They should also review their findings and answer any questions.
Choosing a home inspection company that can add value results in a true benefit to the client, and ultimately, more referrals for all.
For more information, visit www.hometeam.com.