Home Inspector: How to Become, Earning Potential, Good Choice or Not?

Home inspection is one of the fastest-growing industries in the United States. Many Americans seek out careers in home inspection because it’s recession resistant and comes with financial flexibility, high margins and personal fulfilment. Home inspectors provide a valuable service to home buyers, sellers, and owners by thoroughly inspecting homes and identifying health and safety hazards.  

If you're considering becoming a home inspector, here's what you need to know to decide if it’s the right career path for you.  

How to Become a Successful Home Inspector 

1. Research the state requirements to become a home inspector. 
2. Earn your certification. 
3. Gain experience by doing an internship, apprenticeship or working with a home inspection company. 
4. Get licensed in your state. 
5. Maintain your certification and license by completing continuing education credits. 
6. Stay up to date on the latest trends and changes in the industry. 
7. Build your business by marketing yourself online and networking with REALTORS®. 
8. Schedule inspections for homes in your community. 
9. Follow up with clients after every inspection to answer any questions they may have. 

What are the educational requirements to become a home inspector? 

Most home inspectors either work for a home inspection company, are self-employed contractors, or own a franchise. While there are no educational requirements to become a home inspector, most have at least a high school diploma. However, some states have certification requirements, so it's important to check the specific requirements in your state. To gain experience in the industry, many home inspectors work as interns or apprentices and learn from experienced inspectors. 

How much does a home inspector make? 

Home inspectors typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 a year, depending on the level of experience, region, and services offered, to name a few. The average cost of a home inspection in the U.S. is between $300 and $500. New home inspectors typically earn on the lower end of the pay scale, while more experienced home inspectors earn on the higher end; however, the amount a home inspector makes depends on other factors than just experience. To be successful and earn a good living as a home inspector, it’s recommended to offer a variety of services, build relationships within your community, book inspections throughout the week and weekend.  

How can a home inspector increase profit margins? 

Profit margins can be improved in a number of ways. First, offer a variety of primary and ancillary services in all areas of the home such as mold testing, home energy audits, radon testing, and pool and spa inspections. By offering these services and more, home inspectors can increase their fees and attract more business. Second, be available for inspections throughout the week. Inspectors that make scheduling easy and convenient for clients and real estate agents are more likely to book inspections. Lastly, provide quality and professional service to every client. Being friendly, prompt and thorough and delivering reports within 24 hours of the inspection are just some of the ways to improve customer service and build a clientele base that lasts a lifetime.  

Is home inspection good career choice for me? 

Home inspection is a very demanding, yet very rewarding industry, and is a good career choice for someone who: 

• Wants to serve their local community 
• Is committed to achieving personal and professional goals 
• Pays attention to detail, is persistent and focused 
• Has a solution mindset 
• Displays core values of professionalism, empathy and integrity 
• Can build and maintain relationships 

Trained and certified home inspectors work very closely with members of their community including real estate agents, home buyers, sellers and owners, and industry partners. Their role in the community is important, especially during the home selling and buying process, as they help sellers gain awareness of issues within the home before it’s listed on the market and buyers become aware of all current and potential problems before they take the next step on one of their most valuable investments.  

Conclusion 

If you’re looking for a career with high earning potential and the opportunity to grow personally and professionally, then home inspection franchise may be the perfect fit for you. WIN Home Inspection is always on the lookout for talented and ambitious individuals to join our team as franchise owners, also known as our Strategic Partners. We provide all the training and support you need to get started in this rewarding industry. If you’re excited to learn more and explore this opportunity, give us a call! With WIN Home Inspection, there’s never been a better time to become a home inspector!