The May issue of Real Simple offers a series of useful “How to Buy a House” lists, but I take issue with one of the suggestions.

Under the topic of finding a qualified inspector, Alison Rogers of Real Simple writes, “This is one situation in which you shouldn’t take a recommendation from your real estate agent, experts say. She could encourage you to go with someone who overlooks problems in order to make the deal go through as smoothly as possible. Instead, contact a professional organization…”

I’m not sure which experts offer that advice but what I know is that, as a Realtor, I want a tough inspector on deck every time. I don’t want surprises, and I really don’t wan’t my client experiencing them. Better that we know what’s what from the beginning.

This is true whether I am representing the buyer or the seller, which is why I call the same inspector either way.

As for Real Simple’s advice, I think the real solution starts with picking the right Realtor — one you can trust.