Barry Stone
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New agent seeks disclosure adviceJun 10, 2025 11:14 pm - In real estate, disclosure is wrapped in liability protection and fully serving the client, typically a home buyer. Here, a seasoned home inspector advises a rookie on serving both needs.
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Do new homes really need a home inspection?Jun 03, 2025 11:36 pm - For new-build homes, buyers shouldn’t rely on just the builder’s warranty and are advised to get a proper home inspection to uncover any defects before the warranty expires.
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When are home inspectors liableMay 28, 2025 4:10 pm - A common saying in the home inspection business holds that there are two kinds of home inspectors: those who have been sued and those who will be. The fact is, most home inspectors will be sued at some time during their careers. There are, however, specific circumstances that determine whether a home inspector is truly liable.
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The home inspector has no clothesMay 20, 2025 9:31 pm - The lack of overalls left the 1947 home without a crawl space inspection at the time of sale. Was the home inspector right to use this excuse to skip this part of the inspection?
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When a bedroom is not really a bedroomMay 13, 2025 7:19 pm - Creating a bedroom in the basement can make sense, but if the windows don’t meet strict standards to allow a safe escape in case of a fire, then it’s technically not a bedroom. Do sellers or Realtors have liability if the buyer uses the room as a bedroom?
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Contractors who blindly remove asbestosMay 07, 2025 12:25 am - Asbestos removal is serious business and some contractors are not qualified to identify and properly dispose of it. If you’re concerned about asbestos in your home, it’s best to work with a qualified environmental specialist.
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Inspector misses problem with exhaust flueApr 29, 2025 5:29 am - A buyer had to spend $600 to extend a water heater exhaust flue through the roof, as required by code, instead of through a window. Can the home inspector who failed to note this problem two years ago be made to pay for this repair?
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Buyer suspicious of team approachApr 22, 2025 2:43 pm - My agent recommended a pair of home inspectors who work together as a team. At first, this seemed like a good idea. But another inspector I talked to argued against having a two-person inspection.
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Exhausted over faulty clothes dryer ventApr 15, 2025 10:34 pm - A dryer vent was installed improperly in a new custom build three years ago. Because it doesn’t meet building codes, the builder may still be liable for the defect.
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Buyers unhappy with agent’s home inspectorApr 08, 2025 7:32 pm - Reliance on an agent’s home inspector referral can be good or bad, depending on the agent. Many Realtors endorse the best home inspectors, while others recommend those with lesser qualifications and abilities.