Introduction
Detroit has seen a resurgence in recent years as young professionals and families move back into the city looking for affordable housing near downtown and job centers. With the influx of new residents, the demand for housing inspections has grown to ensure homes are safe and up to code. Detroit is home to some of the most experienced and knowledgeable home inspectors in the state who have intimate knowledge of the city’s varied housing stock.
In this article, we’ll introduce you to five of Detroit Home inspectors experts who have collectively performed thousands of inspections across the metro area. We’ll look at their backgrounds, specialties, and what sets them apart in the home inspection field. Whether you’re a buyer or seller, these are the inspectors you can count on to provide an accurate, comprehensive property assessment.
Tom Wilson – Ideal Home Inspections
Wilson established Ideal Home Inspections in 1985 and has overseen more than 12,000 inspections in Detroit and the surrounding suburbs. Tom is a certified Master Inspector and has expertise in nearly all home systems. He grew up working construction with his father, giving him an edge in evaluating structural issues. Tom is praised for his ability to thoroughly explain inspection findings and provide homeowners with practical next steps. His detailed inspection reports even include photos of any problem areas so buyers get a visual reference. Ideal Home Inspections offers sewer scope and mold testing services in addition to traditional home inspections.
Linda Cole – Pillar To Post Home Inspectors
Linda Cole is Detroit’s leading female home inspector and owner of Pillar To Post Home Inspectors. She began inspecting properties in 2004 and has a reputation for being meticulous yet personable during inspections. Linda uses the latest technology like infrared cameras and moisture meters to detect hidden issues inside walls. Her inspection reports are known for their comprehensive detail, often running over 30 pages. Linda is frequently called on to inspect historic homes in Detroit’s affluent neighborhoods like Boston-Edison, Indian Village, and Palmer Woods. She is an InterNACHI Certified Professional Inspector and advocates continuing education through her blog and seminars.
James Ronald – Ron’s Home Inspection Service
James (Ron) Ronald has over 40 years of experience in the construction and home inspection business. He started doing home inspections in Detroit in 1993 and has personally inspected over 17,000 properties in his career. Ron takes the time to explain home systems while doing inspections and provides practical advice to address any problem areas. His inspection reports are valued for their accuracy and wealth of photographs documenting site conditions. In 2007, Ron’s Home Inspection Service became the first company in Michigan to use third-party verification of their inspection reports. Ron prides himself on providing thorough top-to-bottom inspections buyers can count on.
Mark Thomas – HouseMasters
Mark Thomas is a respected home inspector in Detroit, licensed since 2001. As owner of HouseMasters, Mark conducts inspections following the stringent 20-page HouseMasters Home Inspection System. He is praised by real estate agents for taking the time to explain inspection findings in a way buyers can easily understand. Mark is an active member of the community, providing free home maintenance seminars, and has appeared on local TV and radio shows. He uses state-of-the-art tools like voltage scanners and combustible gas detectors for the most accurate inspections. HouseMasters has a perfect 5-star review rating for Mark’s professionalism and expertise.
Michelle Johnson – Safe at Home Inspections
Michelle Johnson founded Safe at Home Inspections in 2010 to provide top-quality inspections focused on safety and peace of mind. As a Certified Master Inspector, Michelle has in-depth knowledge of Detroit’s housing stock from historic homes to new construction. She takes the time to thoroughly explain the condition of the home and highlight any urgent repairs needed. Michelle is known for being informative but not pushy, giving buyers the objective information they need to make an informed decision. Safe at Home offers sewer scope, mold testing, and other specialty inspection services. Michelle is an active industry volunteer dedicated to advancing education in the field.
Choosing the Right Inspector for You
Detroit home buyers have access to some of the state’s best home inspectors. When selecting the right inspector for your needs, here are a few tips:
– Look for inspectors with substantial experience inspecting Detroit properties similar to yours. Long-time inspectors will be most familiar with common issues in the city’s housing stock.
– Choose an inspector who is licensed and has industry certifications like InterNACHI or ASHI. This ensures they meet stringent qualification criteria.
– Look for reports that are thorough but readable, with technical terminology explained in plain language. Photos of problem areas are also extremely helpful.
– Talk to the inspector ahead of time to get a feel for their professionalism and communication style. Make sure they take the time to answer all your questions.
– Ask if sewer scope, mold testing, and other specialty services are available if desired. Some inspectors offer these while others subcontract out.
– Check reviews and ask real estate agents for inspector referrals, focusing on those known for being meticulous, personable, and timely.
Verdict
Detroit has experienced a welcome revitalization, but home buyers need to enter transactions armed with eyes wide open. A professional inspection provides the information you need to negotiate repairs or walk away from a problem property. The inspectors profiled here have the experience, expertise, and diligence to identify issues that might be dealbreakers. Relying on their trained eyes will give you peace of mind that your Detroit home is solid for the long haul. Read more