Originally Posted By: bdoles This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
HomeGauge users…I’m interested in possibly getting the Pen Tablet (laptop) next year along with the HomeGauge software. I’d like to hear comments about pros and cons from those folks that use this package. (both the laptop and software) Thanks for everyones input.
Originally Posted By: gbeaumont This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
Hi Brian
I spent a huge ammount of time sampling about 12 different software packages before I decided that the HomeGauge product was the best of the bunch, alot of it comes down to personal preferences but I just like the way the thing works. Also the technical support from them is second to non I deal regularly with Sean (a NACHI member) and he is great to get along with, I do not believe that any other software vendor has the support services that they offer in terms of uploading reports to their server, many available templates, NACHI agreement can be down loaded into your reports etc.
HomeGauge has also been very helpfull with images for our educationl product and have offered NACHI any help that they can give, they just have the right attitudes. and that is worth a lot to me.
In fairness I would suggest that you alo look at 3D, PalmTech, Inspectview, EyeCandy & the others that are around, but I would alo recomend that you call HomeGauge direct and talk to Sean about your requirements and system needs (he is a big a geek as Chris, and knows his stuff  )
As to the hardware choice I currently have a Fujitsu touch screen notebook, but will be upgrading to a tablet in the new year.
Originally Posted By: jonofrey This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
I’ll second Gerry’s comments. I didn’t go with the tablet because all I could find was first generation stuff. New stuff scares me, just like new inspectors.
I'll roll to a tablet (maybe) when they are on at least a third generation product. Taking notes on paper with digital pictures has worked just fine so far so maybe I won't change. A tablet is just another thing to break in the field as far as I'm concerned. Busted my cheapo vivatar digital camera the other day (got into a fight with a ladder and lost). Had to go to the backup Mavica which is a great camera but disks only hold about 18 pics.
Originally Posted By: bdoles This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
I’ve sampled several packages also. I currently use QuickStart 2000 which currently satisfies me. I’ll have a hard time swallowing the cost of about $2300.00 though (good tax deduction though) when getting the HomeGauge package (tablet & software).
Thanks for everyones thoughts/comments.
-- Brian K Doles
Inspection Connection Home Inspections
Northeast, TN
Originally Posted By: Steve Yared This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
I went with Homegauge a couple months ago. Clients like the format. I like that I can give a detailed report, clients don’t have to decipher a checklist and my bad handwriting anymore.
I echo the opinion about Homegauge, very helpful company, good people
I put a sample report of mine on my website and let Realtors know about it, it's gotten me a couple of inspections
Originally Posted By: dconstant This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
I too highly recommend HomeGauge for both their Acer laptop and their software. As everyone has previously stated, their support (telephone and e-mail) is ALWAYS prompt and to-the-point.
One negative which I would like to throw out there in regard to the Acer100, is the screen....can't see it outside in almost any type of lighting. I like the ability to prepare the report as I progress through the inspection, but because of the screen, must hold out until one is inside. Hopefully this will be resolved, and then I'll be happy.
