Work-From-Home Job Spotlight: Home Inspector

Each Thursday, I’m highlighting a work-from-home job or business.


Job Description: A home inspector inspects homes for potential buyers and reports on the home’s condition, including exterior and interior, and writes reports for her clients.

Education: Courses in home inspection are helpful, as well as certification through one of the home inspection associations. Some states require home inspectors to be licensed.

Skills: The ability to understand construction and the various technical aspects of a home. Being people-oriented and organized are keys to success in this field.

Job outlook: According to the American Society of Home Inspectors, 77 percent of U.S. and Canadian homes sold today are inspected prior to purchase. “The market is still underserved and the remaining growth potential is considerable. This trend leaves room for many to become home inspectors, build a career, even establish a home inspection company,” the society says on its website.

The U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that “the routine practice of obtaining home inspections is a relatively recent development, causing employment of home inspectors to increase rapidly.” Check out the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook for more details.

Possible employers: Check out the American Society of Home Inspectors for leads. Consider starting your own consulting business or joining with another home inspector in your area.

Preparation: Join the American Society of Home Inspectors. Take home inspecting course through the society, Allied Schools or Kaplan Professional Schools.

Get your foot in the door: Ask a home inspector in your area or a nearby area if you could shadow her on a client visit to make sure this is a good fit for you. Talk to local real estate brokers on working with them on home inspections.

Until next time,

Sarah