Residential home inspection / construction inspection / advocate for the home BUYER & SELLER
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Keywords: residential home inspection real estate construction inspection remodeling renovation ashi nahi code violations building codes brickkicker
Interview Q&A
How long have you been in business?
I have been in the construction/remodeling business for over 30 years. I have been a licensed home inspector for 3 years, previously doing home inspections and remodeling consultation for the last 20 years.
What is your primary product or service?
Residential home inspection. I am also qualified for light commercial and larger commercial inspections, but do not get as many calls for that. I would like to do more home warranty inspection work, and would also like to educate home sellers of the importance of having their homes inspected prior to a buyer's inspection.
How did you first become interested in your line of business? (if owner) - What is your background? (If owner or store manager)
I saw a need for honest evaluations of residential homes, both from a seller's and buyer's standpoint. When I do an inspection it is my duty and responsibilty to give an honest evaluation of the condition of the home I am inspecting. Sellers should have a clear picture of what they are selling prior to putting their home on the market. In almost every listing I see, the seller checks the boxes that pertain to important issues such as Radon, and Lead-based paint, without a clear picture of what defects may exist.
I have seen sellers who have a contract on the purchase of a new home, only to have their contract voided when they could not sell their current property.
How do you differentiate yourself from other businesses in your category and area?
If you want an honest, unbiased opinion then call me to discuss your feelings and concerns. When I do an inspection my job is not over when I give you my report and your check is in the bank. I will ALWAYS be around to discuss your concerns and issues prior to, and after your purchase. SELLERS....Call me for an inspection BEFORE you list your house. My fee is a relatively small one-time charge that could have the potential to pay you back ten-fold on your sale, or home purchase. It is usually more cost-efficient to deal with potential problems BEFORE they become more serious ones. NEW HOME BUYERS....Warranty work after a sale is one of the most difficult things to deal with if there are problems. Most people think... "Oh well! We have a year to deal with any problems".....WRONG!!!!! By the time most people settle in, pick out the curtains, and have a house-warming party, six months have passed. Now you call the builder, time passes, they'll take care of it. No one calls. Whoops. Your warranty expired and your out of luck. Most inspectors aren't up front about these situations because they look to the "Big Guys" for more referrals, and the situation goes on. I am for the buyer, and/or seller, PERIOD.
How many locations do you have and do you have plans to expand?
One. You will deal with me on EVERY aspect of your inspection.
Provide detailed directions to your location
I am located in Lake Villa, around Route 83 and Rollins Road and usually work within a 40 mile radius. Depending on the situation, I can travel further.
What type of payments do you accept?
Personal checks,cash and money orders.
Which areas do you service?
A 40 mile radius of my home location, though that is not a steadfast rule.
Who owns your company or runs daily operations?
Myself
What are your hours of operation?
With the time limits imposed upon inspections, usually 5 days from date of the contract, time is of the essence. I will be there at YOUR convenience. 24 hour notice is usually required before the actual inspection. When we first connect and establish that I will be doing your inspection, please give me as much preliminary info as possible such as listing info to help me prepare for my actual inspection.