Becoming a home inspector is a completely new career path for me. Since 2003, my professional background has been entirely in the military and law enforcement. My family and I are relocating to Florida to be closer to family, and I’m currently about halfway through the coursework required to take the state licensing exam.
After completing the exam, I plan to attend the House of Horrors training facility to gain more hands-on experience. My ultimate goal is to start my own home inspection business.
If anyone has suggestions or tips on how I can become more familiar with the job or industry, I’d appreciate the insight!
Get your coursework done, then visit the HOH prior to taking the exam!
The more you actually understand about the How’s and Why’s of all the systems, (verses just knowing what a book says about them), goes a long way in becoming a successful inspector.
I would add getting your InterNACHI CPI certification and being very active here on the MB. Not only reading but asking questions regarding specific topics. Nachi also has a ton of great recorded webinars to help you learn.
Thank you for the advice, I have been wearing the webinars out. I have learned a lot. I have been doing inspections own my house that goes with the lesson I’m on, which is helpful. I’m more of hands on and visual learner, so I’m looking forward to the HOH.
I think we all are visual learners. However, you will need to maintain your reading and comprehension skills, especially when it comes to technical data. It can be tedious and difficult depending on your background.
Yes, sir thank you, I have been doing a lot of studying reading etc. I purchased all the books from the inspector outlet. So far money well spent, I don’t have to look at the computer for hours at a time.
I also would recommend putting together a business plan and sticking to it. A good business plan will give you a road map of how to proceed moving forward and in starting your new career.
IMO it’s important not only to know about all the house systems, but more importantly, understanding how they work. When I first started, I quickly discovered that electrical systems were my weak area, so I really focused on it and now I feel it’s one of my stronger areas of understanding.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions as being in this industry is a non-stop learning experience. I’ve been in this industry for over 22 years and still see things that I’m not sure about that require further investigation on my part, Google and this MB are both my go-to resources whenever I have questions about anything.
You may want to contact some Mentors, CMIs or CPIs within 80 to 100 miles, or closer, to your area and communicate with them. Maybe one, or more, will help you. Be discerning, as some inspectors feel as though they are training their competition by ride-alongs or mentoring or hiring and some are into it just for the $.