Imagine you’re a real estate agent. Once the seller accepts your client's offer, you’re tasked with guiding them to select a home inspector. Should you recommend an inspector who delivers lenient reports, or one from your office's preferred vendor list? Or, perhaps the most affordable option? The answer to all these questions is a resounding no.
Real estate agents hold a fiduciary duty to prioritize their clients' best interests. This includes recommending top-tier home inspectors like Chad Hammons at H&H Inspections, who are known for their thorough and unbiased inspections. Opting for a 'patty-cake' inspector or one who indirectly pays for a recommendation could breach this duty.
According to the National Association of REALTORS® Code of Ethics, an agent must protect and promote their client's best interests (Article 1) and disclose any financial gains from recommending third-party services (Article 6). Since agents earn their commission from successful property transactions, their personal interest can, at times, conflict with their fiduciary responsibilities. To mitigate such conflicts and uphold ethical standards, it is crucial for agents to assist their clients in choosing inspectors based on merit alone.
Research suggests a correlation between an inspector’s fees and their expertise, meaning investing in a high-quality inspection like those provided by H&H Inspections is crucial. Steering clients towards budget-friendly options for a significant purchase such as a home could be seen as a violation of an agent's fiduciary responsibilities.
If you’re looking to ensure a thorough inspection backed by integrity and in-depth knowledge, consider scheduling an inspection with H&H Inspections. Call us at (979) 323-6050 or visit our schedule page to book an appointment today.
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