Cheap Inspector Problem.

[belliott (Bob Elliott, 450.0002662)]

@wdecker

I never let the agent set up the inspection. I talk, directly, to the client. They are my client, not the agent.

I had an agent, the other day (buyer’s agent) who overheard the client and I when she was writing the check. The agent commented I was very expensive. I looked at the agent and said, “Hey, what do YOU do to justify your 3%.? I actually work for a living.”

I understand perfectly and often get the cheapo agent calls but they pay my fee and not theirs.
The biggest line is they will have more coming .

Once you do cheap they most likely would want it every time.

[bgarrison (Ben Garrison)]

@ccurrins

So you’re an “admitted” low-baller.

When you need work on your vehicle do hire the cheapest mechanic or body repairman?

When you need a new roof do you hire the cheapest roofer?

When you need remodeling work, painting, at Your home do you hire the cheapest contractor you can find?

I like threads like this because I deal with it all day every day but it’s the home inspectors and real estate appraisers who are the price shoppers. With insurance, the lowest price always wins if you never have a claim. Kind of the way a home buyer might perceive the inspection process? Cheapest inspector is the best as long as there are no issues with the house and they have no intention of reading your report and following recommendations.

[mauger (Mike Auger, CMI - RI 43685, RMC-142, RMB-096)]

I have an inspection later today, client called asked some questions, including fee. When I quoted my fee he stated a competitor was $50 less. I told him, thats fine, I do not price compete, and my competitors likely do not compete in quality. I cant speak for what they do or do not inspect, or the methods they use. Would you like Saturday afternoon?

Done. Simple.

I admit some folks still choose the cheaper guy and that’s fine too. I have worked each day since January 2nd, except one.

[gfarnsworth (Gary Farnsworth, CMI)]

Mike, I will try that next time.

I hope we can keep this thread going, as well as some others, about how cheap inspectors are operating. Kansas HI laws are up for a sunset vote very soon. The Senate has already approved to renew the laws 36-3. Now it is up to the House committee.

Keep the comments coming, please, as these committee members are listening.

[mauger (Mike Auger, CMI - RI 43685, RMC-142, RMB-096)]

http://www.nachi.org/forum/f2/shortened-inspection-today-79112/

Update, the inspection lasted about an hour…

[tspargo (Tim Spargo, CMI)]

I’ll keep it going… Yesterday, a local inspector low-balled a house I had quoted… 2000sf house and pool $225 :shock::shock: I guess it’s some extra money for someone… probably my fault for not better explaining myself to the buyers.

It irritated me, right up until the time that another call came in for an estate in Beverly hills “Tim are you available XXXXX, we have a 8500sf home with guest house and pool”

“Yes I am, see you then.” I’d have missed it if it wasn’t for the low baller.