TOPIC: Getting Started and general concerns help

Thank you Bruce.  You're right on with what I was asking, and you've made it clear as to how difficult it would be to put something together due the the wild variations of business practice.  I learn something every time you post.  Wish I were in NC and I'm shadow you for an inspection or two.

I have been in business 10 years. Approaching my 2000 home inspection.

There are a lot of areas that I could save you time, money from my own mistakes and years in business.

Now you did good by starting with Home Inspector Pro. I could go into detail but lets say if Dom was around 10 years ago I would of saved a few grand.

Tools, what is a waste and what is a useful, valuable tool. I have so many tools just sitting around(waste of money)

What marketing works, doesn't. I could be like the Millionaire maker and charge you hundreds of dollars a month to tell you what most successful inspectors know.

First tip!!  Ladders, Go to Sherwin Williams and by a telescopic ladder. Mine extends to 16.5 ft rated for 225 lbs. Purchased for $150.
This ladder is so cool. Replaced a 6ft and 4ft ladder. I still have one I use for exterior, but this one rocks for inside.

I wasted money on a 24 ft ladder, ladder rack and other ladders. The $150 is less than half price of what i was seeing online.

Marketing, email me and I will give you my Millionaire tip all for the low price of $349 dollars per month. (Just kidding) Actually if you email me I can give you some info that can help you save money, not make mistakes I made.

Greg,

I too am just starting out.

The best thing you can do is find someone near your area who will be willing to take you on ride alongs (free is the best).  I had one guy who was going to charge me, but I managed to find someone just outside of my area who is happy to do it for free (since I am outside of his service area).  I've only been on about 4 ride-alongs so far, but the amount I've learned, from technical items, to general practices to business specifics, has been immeasurable.  I plan on doing as many as I can while I continue to build up my business.  Good luck to you.

Greg & Paddy...those are some good tips given to you guys.

Eventually you will have to throw your feet in the fire! Remember, You will ALWAYS be learning, and if you don't enjoy it...don't be in it! You have two task to handle when you get into this business- 1st) knowing the technical end and knowing your craft as an inspector, and 2nd) selling and Marketing yourself.

Get involved in a "networking group" if there are any in your area.  BNI or LeTip are both good places to start. You're building a business too.  You need to build confidence, trust, and respect with people in your community. I'm fortunate enough to be involved in a BNI group out of St Charles, IL called Network Exchange. There are 28 business owners in our group that meet each week.  Only one person from a business category can be represented...so I'm the only Home Inspector; but I learn so much every week from the 27 other members.