Regional Inspection Differences (with Miki Mertz)

03/02/2025 55 min Temporada 7 Episodio 5
Regional Inspection Differences (with Miki Mertz)

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Episode Synopsis

Click this link to learn more about the Business Mastery Class for Solo Inspectors:https://events.iebcoaching.com/BusinessMasteryforSoloInspectors25In this episode, Reuben Saltzman and Tessa Murry discuss the challenges and experiences of home inspection with Miki Mertz, a pioneer female home inspector. They explore the unique advantages and challenges faced by women in the industry, the importance of communication skills, and the transition from teaching to home inspection. Miki shares her accidental journey into the profession, her business in Kansas City, and the lack of regulations in the home inspection industry. The conversation also touches on the significance of inspecting new constructions and the evolving standards set by insurance companies. They also discuss the intricacies of home inspections, focusing on the importance of understanding building codes, the challenges of new construction quality, and the implications of mold and indoor air quality on health. They emphasize the need for home inspectors to educate clients about potential issues and the importance of viewing a house as a system. The discussion also touches on the competitive housing market and the challenges faced by first-time home buyers, as well as advice for aspiring home inspectors.Here’s the link to check Inspector Empire Builder: https://www.iebcoaching.com.You can find Miki at https://www.completehomeinspectionkc.com.TakeawaysMiki Mertz has been a home inspector for over 30 years.Women in home inspection still represent a small percentage of the industry.Communication skills are crucial for home inspectors to convey information effectively.Miki transitioned from being a high school band director to a home inspector.Miki's entry into home inspection was largely accidental.Complete Home Inspection is Miki's business, which is located in Kansas City.There are no regulations for home inspectors in Missouri or Kansas.New constructions should still be inspected despite city regulations.Miki enjoys inspecting mid-century homes due to their unique characteristics. Home inspectors should educate clients on the condition of their homes.Understanding building codes is crucial for effective inspections.Mold issues often stem from underlying water problems.Indoor air quality is a significant concern for homeowners.Crawl spaces can greatly impact a home's overall health.New construction quality can vary significantly between builders.Home inspectors must navigate the competitive housing market carefully.First-time home buyers often face unexpected repair costs.Continuous education is vital for home inspectors.Viewing a house as a system is essential for effective inspections.Chapters01:01 Introduction to Home Inspection and Guest02:25 Miki Mertz: A Pioneer in Home Inspection03:52 Challenges and Advantages of Being a Female Inspector06:49 The Importance of Communication in Home Inspections09:39 Transition from Teaching to Home Inspection12:57 Accidental Career Path into Home Inspection14:41 Miki's Business and Location15:40 Regulations and Challenges in Home Inspection19:01 The Importance of Inspecting New Construction24:06 Insurance Requirements and Home Inspection Standards27:03 Understanding Home Inspections and Insurance28:42 The Importance of Building Codes30:09 Discrepancies in New Construction Quality32:10 Mold and Indoor Air Quality Concerns39:21 Health Impacts of Home Environment43:05 Crawl Spaces and Building Science51:01 Navigating the Competitive Housing Market52:30 Advice for Future