“Straight From the Pros!” is an Alix Harte original series designed to maximize the preparedness of any potential home buyer or seller. In this edition, we will hear from a certified home inspector Jim Boring with Insight Home Inspections. I have worked with Jim in the past on multiple occasions. He has an incredible eye for detail and a wide knowledge base of home systems. Let’s hear what he has to share with us!
“Tell us a bit about your professional background. What inspired you to pursue your current career?
I have a BA in Accounting and a Masters in Business. I was in the medical industry for 10 years prior to pursuing a career as a professional home inspector, but I longed to have my own business. I enjoyed remodeling my home and had a good knowledge of building and how systems in the home operated. It was an easy transition to becoming a home inspector. I have now operated my own home inspection business for over 25 years.
What are the qualifications to become a licensed home inspector?
You have to have a general knowledge of building systems and other components that are commonly found in the home. Passing the National Home Inspector Exam is the first step to getting licensed. Most states require licensing as well. Both Tennessee and Mississippi where I operate require licensing.
Explain your personal methodology when conducting a home inspection. What are you looking for and how do you go about doing that?
I do a full comprehensive inspection which is similar to giving a property a physical from the roof to the foundation. Basically, anything that is visible, accessible or can be operated using normal operating controls is part of the inspection. All major systems, components and areas are reviewed: furnace, air conditioning, plumbing, electrical, built-in appliances, foundation, interior, exterior, roof and attic.
Why should a buyer invest in a home inspection prior to closing on a home purchase?
Although homes do not “pass” or “fail” an inspection, the systems or components some times do. A home inspection provides you with an unbiased opinion of the condition of the property at the time of the inspection. The typical home inspection will take 2-4 hours to thoroughly evaluate the home. We encourage home buyers to attend the inspection. This allows for plenty of time to ask questions and gain a better knowledge of the home.
What are the top three things a seller should do to prepare their home for an inspection?
The top items would be to make areas/systems in the home accessible and make sure the utilities (water, gas, electricity) are on.
How do you keep up to date on the latest technical data related to home inspections?
As part of each states licensing, a home inspector is required to get continuing education units (CEU). The state of Tennessee requires 32 hours of CEUs and Mississippi requires 20 Hours of CEUs every two years. I choose classes that provide information about newer systems, techniques or requirements related to the home inspection process.”
A big thanks to Jim for his valuable time and expertise! As a realtor, I have a wealth of vendors and trusted experts in their respective fields. If you want to talk about how my team and I can best serve you in your real estate transaction, I would be more than happy to outline my work flow with you and see if we would be a good fit for each other.