TOPIC: which organization?

i have the about the same experience with agents around here, Gary. I think that ASHI is just something they have heard of or are somewhat familiar with. I believe if the answer was "no, but I am (blank) certified, and hold a Certified Inspector's License through the State", it would hold a little weight with the realtor, for whatever that may be worth. I usually tell them which organizations I hold memberships in, and am pursuing others. Of course, if your state doesn't require certification, it would still be a notch for the inspector who held membership and/or certification. In my particular case, I think it may be wise to join ASHI and InterNachi for some various reasons.. mainly training, benefits of membership, and the required CE's offered that are accepted by my State.

InterNACHI is all about growing YOUR business. ASHI is all about ASHI.

I have been a member of both and can tell you that InterNACHI is working hard to get YOUR phone to ring, tons of referrals, Logo use from day one, ACE Hardware discount cards for your clients as well as the seller, DOE communications, Logo design assistance, Brochure design assistance, free education, the list goes on.

With ASHI you can't even use the logo without paying for it, and then only after a large number of inspections performed. Most of your time with ASHI will be filled with political discussions within ASHI's structure including rules handed down from boards, electing board members, electing higher office positions, etc. The kicker is as an associate member not only do you not have Logo use, you also don't have a vote.

I have had the pleasure of visiting InterNACHI discussion boards and was impressed with the information being delivered.  I cannot agree more with your statement in regards to politics and other inner workings of ASHI.  I, however, do not pay attention to those things and up to this point am not affected by any political or management moves within the org.

For me, it would take to much to try and educate the general public about the validity of another org.  Around here ASHI is king and thats all anyone cares about.  Yes, ASHI probably could be doing more to help its members but in reality being able to say I am ASHI certified is all my business needs.

I really do agree with both you guys (Tod and Gary). Especially for someone starting out, InterNachi is offering the most bang for the bucks. The continuing education is very impressive, and logo use was something that can nicely dress up a business card or website. I wouldn't be able to use ASHI logo for some time, though I think I do have about 50 or so inspections under my belt (I've been in business one year). ASHI may be the "king" of these organizations, but it seems InterNACHI is the "army", the one that's doing all the work for us, the inspectors. Having looked over both extensively, l have become an InterNACHI member, and may consider ASHI next year, if the business is doing well enough to afford it. The sole reason for joining ASHI would be to say "yes" to a real estate agent who asks if I belong, but joining InterNACHI seems to be giving the most immediate benefits, most importantly making my phone ring!! Thanks you guys for your input, it's nice to have "friends" in the same business with the same interests, but not competing against me!!

A karma for you, Todd. Joining InterNachi has already been EXTREMELY helpful and hasn't even been 30 days! Logo use, continuing education, and tons of free material about everything imaginable in Home Inspections!!! 

Over a period of almost 5 years, I don't think I have ever been asked if I am an ASHI member.  InterNACHI provides all I need and is less expensive.