If you just want a number to fill in your budget, and you’re absolutely convinced that every home inspector and their report is a commodity (that one is just as good as any other), then the average cost of a home inspection in Sussex, Kent, Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Prince George’s, and Charles Counties is $350. There you have it, and best of luck to you.

If that’s your position, however, ask yourself, “why would your Realtor, appraiser, contractor, mortgage lender, title company, and others involved in the buying process—all of whom are also required to be licensed—be any different?” The fact is that these professionals, just like a licensed home inspector, vary greatly in their levels of experience, customer service, and/or access to the market essentials needed to ensure a smooth transaction. 

They are not created equal, nor are the fees they charge for their expertise and service. Attempting to use an “average cost” is nonsense, because, at the end of the day, the pros and cons of using any one of them are widely variable and are just as unique as the home you’re buying or selling. So, if someone tries to convince you that “all inspections are the same and should only cost about $200” or “an inspection should only take an hour,” then you would do well to consider the motives and experience of the source. Clearly, they are naïve, or worse yet, don’t have your best interests in mind…

You get what you pay for.

Simply put, if you go to a gas station to get lunch, it may be faster and cheaper, but you’re probably going to regret it sometime later. If you go to a five-star restaurant, you will pay more and it will take longer, but it will likely be more satisfying. Going along with a franchise-based home inspection is equivalent to going through a drive-thru. Every burger will be essentially the same, the price won’t vary much, you’ll get it quickly, and you may, or may not, get the fries you ordered. These are the inspections upon which the earlier “average” is based. These are the reports I am called in to reexamine because they are incomplete, alarmist, or just plain wrong. These are the “average” documents that kill deals and bring unwanted drama into an already stressful real estate transaction.

The home buying and selling process are extremely stressful. You deserve a “five-star” experience, so hire a Certified Master Home Inspector (CMI)

When you want something better than a commodity; when there’s a lot more riding on your decision; when the safety of your family—not to mention your financial well-being—is at stake, it’s not the time to settle for a “happy meal”  home inspection. It’s worth it to hire the best, most experienced inspector you can find—someone who wants to teach you about your home and build a long-term relationship, not just make a quick buck. They may cost a bit more, but the knowledge and peace of mind this level of service brings are a solid return on investment. 

Give us a call today for a free consultation 443-534-9113