How to start a home inspection business?

[dharris]

Problem is, mr charleys posts are inconsistant, from emails I've recieved, many think that ole charleys back side is full of stinky stuff

[Bill Morrison]

Wow, I sure got an education! Thanks everyone for their help!

Thanks to everyone who private messaged me about their experiences with Ken Compton's program. I think I'm going to take a closer look at it.

Thanks again,

Bill

[Mike Mer]

Originally Posted by Bill Morrison

Wow, I sure got an education! Thanks everyone for their help!

Thanks to everyone who private messaged me about their experiences with Ken Compton's program. I think I'm going to take a closer look at it.

Thanks again,

Bill

Is he just pushing this guys program? Is it a valid program? I know for me I am ready to do whatever it takes to become a home inspector. I am ready for classes and practicals, I have been thinking about this for 4-5 years, and I am ready to move forward. But, at a cautious rate.

[Bill Morrison]

Hi Mike,

I'm not pushing anyone. I'm trying to get some feedback here. I heard about that program from an interview I heard, but I have no idea if it's any good or not. It's the only one I had heard of. What are the other ones worth looking into?

I was hoping to get some feedback about any and all programs out there that might help me separate myself in the market. Everyone gets inspection training. I want to make sure I'm implementing the best practices in terms of marketing and promoting my business.

What I'm getting (from the private messages I'm receiving) is that people who are having success with a particular program aren't willing to post publicly about their experiences. I can understand this, but it's also a big world. I'm sure that my little business in Arizona isn't going to compete with anyone here.

So, seminars? Tapes? CD's? Courses? Coaching programs? What's worked for people?

Does the real success come from just finding a good mentor and working one-on-one? AND, most importantly, how much does THAT option cost? Who has done it successfully?

Thanks again,

Bill

[dharris]

I can understand this, but it's also a big world. I'm sure that my little business in Arizona isn't going to compete with anyone here.

So, seminars? Tapes? CD's? Courses? Coaching programs? What's worked for people?

Does the real success come from just finding a good mentor and working one-on-one? AND, most importantly, how much does THAT option cost? Who has done it successfully?

Thanks again,

Bill

Bill...
I would recommend the ITA home study course to start with.
This course is very comprehensive, covers 12 or more components, and has tests to take with every section.
It will take apex 6 plus months to complete and digest the content.

I've seen this course, used, advertised for sale from other inspectors for $2-500.00 on this BB or inspectionnews.com , you might also check ebay

Another good source of info containing what were are exposed to, is All of The code check books.
They can be purchased on-line, I also believe Home Depot and Lowes carry them.

The BTR site has a good basic check list identifying in full what you are required to report on and know when providing an inspection report.

I had the ITA home study course, and gave it to somebody, an older gentleman , a year plus ago, from the west side, don't have a clue who he was, if he's lurking on this BB , maybe if he's completed with it he would be willing to pass in on to you.

As far as a mentor, prior to spending $s on that part it would be in your best interest to complete what ever HI training you choose.

Most guys, with any experience [ 10 yrs or more] at all, that offer mentoring charge apx $100 plus per inspection. In addition to the inspection most of them will take an extra hr. plus per inspection, teaching you what, how, why they are identifying the defect on the inspection

There are guys, some with very little experience that will charge you $50 or less per, and take 2-3 guys at one time, unfortunately they will zip thru an inspection in an hour or so, in an attempt to just make a few extra $s per inspection.

No I do not offer ride alongs, I do offer to do [1] side by side inspection on the new inspectors home, and review the new inspectors report with the inspector, after he or she completes the state required training,
at no charge.

[Bill Morrison]

So you're saying that a hands-on course isn't necessary? I guess I thought I would have to travel for a "real" home inspector education. There are good correspondence programs?

[dharris]

Originally Posted by Bill Morrison

So you're saying that a hands-on course isn't necessary? I guess I thought I would have to travel for a "real" home inspector education. There are good correspondence programs?

No.& Yes, there are good correspondence programs,
Nothing can replace live training with interaction with the instructor and other students in the class.

The home study course/ info will give a good insight on building construction, and what is involved in inspecting, prior to paying for a course..

I have 10 plus VCR tapes [ apx 1 hr per , that were included with the ITA home study course,
If you have a VCR, and if interested send me a PM, and I'll loan them to you.

If I recall you stated you were from Tempe, I'm in Mesa, Dobson Ranch.

[Dale Duffy]

Bill,

I don't know you, but if you need help with anything just call me, I don't inspect many homes anymore, basically just commercial buildings, but if you would like to go with me on an inspection of a house(s), call me, if I don't have commercial inspections I do houses.

And I don't charge people I help.

Like Dan said about information regarding study material, I also have a bunch of it around here somewhere, your welcome to borrow it also.

[Bill Morrison]

Thank you, Dale! As soon as I figure out what I'm doing I'll give you a call. I really appreciate the offer.