1. Find a home inspector that lives in the area and can get to your home inspection in a timely manner. Fort Collins is typically a very busy market. There is a lot of competition for Fort Collins homes. Same day report delivery is essential in Fort Collins. You need to get your home inspection done promptly and professionally. 2. Choose a home inspector that can do radon testing and have your results on the day of the inspection. The City of Fort Collins did a study of radon in homes and found that 70% of homes had elevated levels of radon. You want to find out if your new home has radon during your due diligence period. 3. You want to find a home inspector that has working relationships with the Fort Collins Real Estate community. When your inspection is scheduled, the home inspection company will need to get access to the home. A trusted, well known home inspector can do this with a quick phone call. 4. A home inspector should be knowledgeable with Fort Collins homes. Some neighborhoods have lots of aluminum wiring. Some have been effected by the devastating Spring Creek flood. There are many external factors that can affect the condition of a home in Fort Collins. 5. Look at a home inspector’s experience. Most experts agree that 5 years actual home inspection experience is that absolute minimum you should look for when you are making what might be your largest financial investment. 6. There are many types of construction in the Fort. Condominiums, townhouses, single family, luxury homes and more. Find a versatile home inspector that is well versed in them all. 7. You will want a home inspector that is insured. The minimum would be Errors and Omission with general liability coverage. Some listing agents won't let a home inspector in properties unless they can verify coverage. 8. A clear and concise inspection report is essential to the decision making process. Look at the inspectors sample reports. Are they easy to understand? Is there a summary at the beginning? Are they full of meaningless industry jargon the will confuse home buyer and Realtor™ alike? 9. Do they make incredible sounding claims and offer sketchy warranties. A home inspector is a consultant. You are purchasing knowledge, not excuses when an inexperienced inspector shows up in the driveway. 10. Look for an objective inspector. Some inspectors are referred to as "blind inspectors" and some are referred to as "deal killers". A great home inspector is one that can put the condition of the house in perspective. Most defects can be easily fixed. Some defects are serious but can still be fixed. Some defects will require extensive remediation to make the home safe to live in. For the welfare of your family and your life savings, choose an objective, thorough inspector. You only get one chance.