Have you considered becoming a home inspector? It’s a wonderful career for many, but as with all careers, there is much to consider before making the move into becoming a certified and practicing home inspector. Whether you are interested in working for a company as an inspector, working independently or starting an inspection business, we have laid out some important considerations.
People skills
Technical proficiency in the field is a requirement to excel as an inspector, but strong personal, communication and relationship skills are a necessary trait if one is to become an exceptional home inspector. The home inspection industry requires an advanced understanding of construction, and the communication of these concepts to homeowners and real estate agents is just as important. Being an exceptional inspector means being customer service centric and operating with a high standard of professionalism and emotional intelligence. The ability to convey complicated information clearly while translating that information into layman's terms requires practice, patience and tact. Explaining inspection findings to the client in an educational, but non-overwhelming manner is key. A home inspector who lacks the ability to connect and communicate with clients in an effective way can overwhelm buyers while turning agents off. Acting as both home inspector and personal consultant and educator to clients will build trust and strong long-term relationships.
Training, Education, and Passion
As with many states in the U.S, Colorado does not have required licensing, but to get started in a career in home inspection it is expected that inspectors be certified by a third-party institution. The qualifications of a home inspector vary state by state so check your state’s requirements. Although Colorado does not require a license to operate as a home inspector, having a background in construction as well as keeping up to date with educating yourself is a must to become an exceptional inspector. What makes an exceptional home inspector is the type of person who is curious and spends their time researching topics surrounding home inspection. The industry in Colorado specifically requires an understanding of the climate and its impacts on the deterioration of homes such as understanding and being able to identify damage and impacts of freezing weather.
For information on education check out the links at the bottom.
Proficient Use of Modern Technology
Modern industries expect (and to some degree demand) the latest technology, and home inspection is no exception. Although the job itself hasn’t changed much over the years, advancements in mobile technology have expedited the documentation and delivery of reports to agents and clients. The process is now much more efficient and clients expect this quick turnaround. This comes at no surprise that they must know how to use a smart phone and/or tablet, how to use mobile apps, and may need to take a crash course in order to get up to speed for this industry.
Business Management and Organizational Skills
This point mainly comes into play if you are considering starting your own inspections business. Whether you are considering working on your own as a single inspector, or growing into a larger business, there are many challenges that come with owning and operating a home inspection business. The inspection and real estate industry operate on a quick timeline, so organization, constant communication and punctuality are key. Liability is also a large factor in owning and operating an inspection business. A tolerance for risk, proper training and adequate liability insurance are required to operate a legitimate inspection business.
For anyone interested in becoming an inspector, Alpine Building Performance offers rigorous, on the job and in classroom training to properly prepare an equip inspectors to perform their job to the highest standards and expectations.
As a growing and reputable property inspection firm in the Denver Metro area, Alpine Building Performance, LLC is always looking for exceptional home inspectors.
Are you interested in learning more about becoming a home inspector in Colorado? Check out some resources for those interested in Home Inspector education:
International Association of Certified Home Inspectors
https://www.nachi.org/certified-inspectors
Membership costs $499/yr includes all courses and allows members to learn at their own pace.
NACHI Local Chapters:
- Boulder Chapter of InterNACHI
- Denver Chapter of InterNACHI
- Colorado Springs Chapter of InterNACHI
American Society of Home Inspectors
https://www.homeinspector.org/
National Home Inspector Exam
https://nationalhomeinspectorexam.org/