You're correct that if they have a conflict of interest, they are definitely useless. Don't hire the agent's inspector. Likewise, make sure you have your own

You're correct that if they have a conflict of interest, they are definitely useless. Don't hire the agent's inspector. Likewise, make sure you have your own agent, don't use the seller's. And if you're in court someday, don't expect one lawyer to represent both parties. Simple stuff. It's similar to buying a car: don't ask the dealer's maintenance department whether it's a good car. Drive it to your independent mechanic on the test drive and ask them to take an unbiased look at it. If you don't know a reputable home inspector, you could ask your painter, contractor, or handyman if you have a good relationship with someone who knows houses to take a look.