Home Inspector Business and Agent License

[Frank Geneski]

I am thinking about getting my Home Inspection license and wanted to see what you guys thought. I also have my Real Estate license though.

The reason I want to get it is because I really enjoy inspecting properties, I have been doing it for the last 5 years on a regular basis. From the research I've done and talking to a couple inspectors, making a descent a income ($50K+) is not far fetched.

I have talked to one agent who also has his license and he says its not a big deal, but you have to be careful. The main thing is disclosure before inspections and be fully insured.

Anyone else have any input on this?

[Bill Gulley]

I might suggest putting your RE license on an inactive status and getting away from RE sales, here's why,

Your inspection business will rely on referrals from Realtors, if you are also in sales they may not you near thier client. If a deal doesn't pass and falls through, thier buyer is back out looking, depending on thier agreement, it can expire and the Realtor may see you as a possible competitor. It is a real concern for many Realtors as they tend to be very protective of client identification and relationships.

Get a hold of an inspection agreement, you have very little liability if you know what you're doing. Stiil, get insurance and bonded.

A good inspector can make good money in the right market, think bigger too, might consider doing other testing, lead, well, septics, etc. if you can. Add other inspectors and build a marketable business that has value without you. Good luck...