Hey yall im a new certified home inspector here in Philadelphia. I got into this feild because my husband and i own a concrete company. I love hands on work and ive done a variety of things as far as construction like carpentry, electeical, concrete etc (not plumbing) but since being certified and looking for work ive realized a few things. first thing is just like everything else here in philly things are handled differently …even attaining licenses is different. Is there anyone else here in philly who can tell me how they started getting their feet wet? Ive gotten myself an accounting job until i can get some work but i am still studying and just getting more certs. under my belt. I just completed the mold course.
Would love any tips you have in mind. Im new plus im a woman so im sure i can use all the tips i can get. I know ill deal with a few jerks but it comes with the territory so its all good.
Welcome Mia and congrats on your new adventure. The forums are a great learning tool that should be utilized to help you with “every day” education, and yes, we do have our “jerks” here, but you seem to be prepared for “constructive criticism” and will learn who and who not, is really trying to offer advice.
Good luck, participate and don’t be shy to ask questions here!
“Being a woman” is by no means a disadvantage in this industry. There are tons of successful women inspectors out there and they do the job every bit as good as anyone else.
Just from reading your post, my initial advice would be to work on slowing down your typing and checking for grammatical and spelling errors before sending. I know this is just a forum but you will be typing and writing A LOT as part of this job. Make sure it comes across as professional and proof-read.
Welcome aboard Mia. Enjoy the MB.
There have been many topics and discussions that have been posted here that aren’t really covered in the CE Courses. Best of luck to you!!!
I suggest that you introduce yourself to some female realtors who might enjoy working with a female inspector. One of my former home inspection students has used this approach and she now has several female realtors who use her exclusively because they are more comfortable being at an empty house with another female. but don’t limit yourself to only females, I’m just saying that you may have an advantage with some female realtors.
Also, since you are new to home inspection, but have a good grasp of construction principals, you may want to focus on learning more about the home inspection business and get hands on experience by shadowing an experienced inspector in your area, or even some areas outside the Philly area if local inspectors see you as a threat to their own business. A good inspector won’t be threatened by you though.
My former students are now my friends.
Best of luck as you grow your new business. I hope to see you posting on this MB often. Let us know how things are going for you, and anytime you have a question, just ask.
