Yankee Home Inspection

The house we found and wanted to buy was built at the end of the 18th century. While the house kept many its original features it looked like it was well maintained by the owners. However, with the house of such age no one can be sure that there are no serious problems hidden somewhere. Since we have not been that lucky with the inspectors in our previous house buying we were very thorough and not in a hurry looking for an inspector. We wanted to find the “best of the best”. Our Realtor who was very helpful during the whole buying process recommended us a couple of inspectors. Also we found a number of inspectors with very good reviews on the internet. We communicated with those inspectors and explained our situation about historic house. What surprised us is that they promise to conduct the whole inspections of the house together with inspecting septic system just within two-three hours. Yes, they were going to get help from one of their team members, but two-three hours for the house built in 1790 was certainly not enough. So, we continued our search. One by one we were scanning through every review on the Internet on home inspectors we could find. At some point we stumbled at the review where the buyer was upset that the inspector he hired spent too much time conducting the inspection. That inspector was Mr. Stephen DeCosta. We called him to discuss our case. He sounded solid, explained us the process in details, and informed that the time he spends on the house like ours is not less than 4-5 hours. In addition, he recommended us septic system professional. Looking ahead – we were very happy with the work of that septic system guy. Steve is very thorough, knowledgeable, and highly professional inspector. He totally spent 6 hours conducting house inspection. While inspecting the house Steve explained every small detail even suggesting how to fix the problem. I am an engineer myself. I can do almost any job with my hands and skills - from house repair to house remodeling. However, I was impressed with the depth of Steve's professionalism. At the end of his inspection Steve provided us with a detailed report of all things that need to be fixed. Steve’s report helped us to create a good list of all problems in the house and to re-negotiate a better price for the house. He is the best home inspector we ever worked with. All together working with Steve was a fun, a good learning lesson, and a very reassuring process. After his inspection we knew for sure that we made a good choice, and while the house is old we got confidence that we will be able to fix all the problems the house has. We highly recommend Steve to every one who is looking for a great professional and expects a consistent result of home inspection.

Stephen did a very thorough inspection and had good suggestions. Showed up on time and charged as quoted. Very responsive setting up appointment etc by phone and email

Steve is excellent! He explained everything he pointed out. He also had suggestions on what we could do for repairs. I was very impressed with Steve and how thorough he was during our home inspection. He does not miss anything. I would recommend Steve to anyone I know in need of a home inspections. He also will let you know to pack a lunch because he does not do a quick look he really takes his time and does it correctly.

Steven took the time to explain each of the issues with the house. He also took several calls from me with questions after the inspection. I am hiring him again for another inspection as he is very thorough.

Very through. Stephen took the time to explain what we was looking at and why it was important.