Advise for a Newbie

[ldapkus]

$5000 minimum just to get started. Computer,report writing software ($350 min.) (insurance $2000 min),camera,moisture meter,ladder and on and on. Don't let anyone BS you into thinking you can do it for any less.

[Bob Elliott]

Originally Posted by ldapkus

$5000 minimum just to get started. Computer,report writing software ($350 min.) (insurance $2000 min),camera,moisture meter,ladder and on and on. Don't let anyone BS you into thinking you can do it for any less.

All I have is a flashlight and duct tape.

[lvass]

Well, most of this stuff I got figured out. I have a computer, report program from my sister (free), tools for my birthday (free), have a camera already (free), O&E done, better printer done. All I need now is some work so I can eat. Thanks again for all your help.

Leah Vass
Dolores, Co
Southwest Inspection Services

[Bobby Hamilton]

Originally Posted by bboerner

When I say a few hundred I probably spent around $600 total for what's actually needed to do a visual home inspection.

That seems too cheap. Is that for your flashlight and HIP software? I spent that much just on the 2 ladders I carry. I agree with David, if you want to do it right, you'll spend waaaaaay more than $600.

[Greg Bell]

Originally Posted by bboerner

My point is your tools must be alot prettier than mine When I say a few hundred I probably spent around $600 total for what's actually needed to do a visual home inspection.

A good mositure meter costs almost that much.

[Billy Boerner]

Originally Posted by lvass

Well, most of this stuff I got figured out. I have a computer, report program from my sister (free), tools for my birthday (free), have a camera already (free), O&E done, better printer done. All I need now is some work so I can eat. Thanks again for all your help.

Leah Vass
Dolores, Co
Southwest Inspection Services

Leah the question was what kind of "tools" do you need. Now if you want to add in "other expenses" to get started then yes you'll need a few thousand dollars. Just depends on you really. Your biggest purchase will be E&O. I can tell you though most inspectors I know self insure. There is a reason for that however that's a decision you'll have to make on your own. As for me I'm like you I didn't have to run out and buy most of my tools. I already had a good camera, laptop, printer and I rarely do paper advertisments. 95% of my advertising is via the net. Most people looking for a home inspection simply uses Google to find us. If you don't listen to Dom and get your website going with Google you might as well look elsewhere for employment. Its that simple. When I first started all I needed when it comes to tools was two ladders, a moisture meter (mine cost $40), GFCI tester, a ice pick, a good flash light, and a battery operated screw driver to take panels off with. I've added a few tools since that you really don't need to get started with however so far to date I've been able to give my clients a quality home inspection. One thing that I would like to add one day is a gas sniffer and a infra red cam. I'll do that once I get back from IRAQ. Key is start with the min. Don't put yourself in debt. Other cool tools will come however let the company buy them as time goes on. Most everything I own was bought by company profits. Keep in mind now I'm a 16 yr Active Duty Airmen with the US Air Force. I have a strong income right now and that helped me out tremendously. IMO listen close....

There is no way to make a living in the home inspection business the first year or two in business. If you don't have a full time job your going to struggle and your probably going to sink or give up because it's going to frustrate you. This job is all about reputation. No company starts on it's first day with a solid reputation. You must build it and you must MARKET. Listen to Russell Ray when it comes to Marketing and make sure you follow DOM's tips when it comes to building your site. If you don't your wasting your time.

A WEBSITE IS WORTHLESS IF YOU DON'T SET IT UP WITH PROPER SEO.

Like Will says...

Hope this helps;

[Billy Boerner]

Leah what's your website address? Do you have one yet?

[lvass]

I have personal reasons why I don't have a website just yet. NACHI is putting me to work and that working right now. Plus, I'm a huge believer in Word-of-Mouth business. Thanks for all your help everybody.

[Phillip Craddock]

I started a few months ago, and yea if I add everything including what I already had I'm at about $7000. Actual out of pocket was $2000, rest is being paid over time, it's all relative.