Originally Posted By: Robert Louis Benhardt This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
Hello,
I am seriously directed towards become a member of your community and becoming a home inspector. I was wondering what items one needs for this business? I understand education is the utmost importance but also realize there is tools of the trade so speak.
I can think of a computer, digital camera, cell phone, and a few other things without being in the profession. Was wondering what you guys/girls recommended was the 'necessary' items for startup and then the 'luxury' items for later on once one started getting some regular business.
Originally Posted By: Robert Louis Benhardt This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
Thanks for the reply,
I am aware that through the classes I would become knowledgeable to what was needed for this profession. I was just asking the question to those of you that would be obliged to allow me to know what was your opinions on the matter.
As having a current career, I was looking forward a tad; even though this is something I really want to do, as to whether or not it would be a cost effective addition to my personal ability to earn money. Sorry if I imposed upon you with the question I asked.
Originally Posted By: mboyett This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
Robert,
You didn’t impose on anyone with your question, it’s a legitimate one for someone looking to get into the HI business. It is a difficult question to answer and, it’s true, you will learn a lot when you take some classes and get HI training. Give the members a little time and I bet you get some feedback…just make sure you have some thick skin and don’t be too sensitive. For what it’s worth I spent about $2,500 on computer stuff and tools getting into the business. Give me a little time & I’ll try to break down the tools for you into ‘must have’ and ‘just wanted’.
Originally Posted By: jrivera This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
Hey Rob, have fun shopping !!! You’ll have a good learning exp. trolling thru these boards.
Look for a NACHI meeting near you.
And as a must you should set daily and weekly goals for yourself and even as far up the road to one year and then five years. and keep tabs on how you're doing and what you have accomplished.
Good Luck !!!   
Originally Posted By: bsmith This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
Rob-
Welcome to the BB. You should also include reference materials - Principles of Home Inspection, Preston's Guide, Electrical Inspection of Existing Dwellings, Code Checks, etc.
-- Bill Smith
www.SmithHomeInspection.com
"The difference between stupidity and genius is that genius has its limits." A. Einstien
Originally Posted By: mboyett This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
All good points to remember. Actually, in my case, tools make up only 23% of my expenses. The other 77% is for the things you mention plus many others. I think Robert was only asking about tools so it’s important that he know that there is much more to it than just that.
Originally Posted By: jmichalski This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
I spent $95 on a laser thermometer and it gets - by far - the biggest reaction from clients who love gadgets. I am pretty sure that some realtors refer me just to get to play with that and see the tablet PC.
Originally Posted By: jmichalski This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
I spent $95 on a laser thermometer and it gets - by far - the biggest reaction from clients who love gadgets. I am pretty sure that some realtors refer me just to get to play with that and see the tablet PC.
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and don't forget you $400.00 26' Little Giant ladder.