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Can Christmas shopping with adult children actually be fun? Laura and I think so! Picture this: margaritas in hand, laughter shared over gift ideas, and the joy of plotting a holiday surprise together. But while the season is all about spreading cheer, it’s also crucial to keep an eye on ethical behavior in all aspects of life, including those pesky home maintenance tasks. We share a not-so-jolly tale of an unethical electrician who took advantage of unsuspecting homeowners, turning a routine inspection into an unnecessary expense. This episode uncovers the hidden traps some homeowners fall into and highlights how maintaining integrity is just as important as picking the perfect present.

In our discussion, we also tackle the sneaky tactics of dishonest electricians, shedding light on how they exploit warranty flat rates to push for unneeded replacements. We delve into a case where a Murray electrical panel, still quite serviceable, was wrongfully declared obsolete. By dissecting these deceptive practices, we aim to equip you with the knowledge to navigate these situations wisely. Remember, getting multiple opinions and estimates is not just a suggestion, it's a necessity. We reflect on why homeowners might mistakenly trust technicians over inspectors and offer insights on making informed decisions. Tune in for essential tips to protect yourself from holiday season scams and ensure your home is both safe and festive.

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To learn more about Habitation Investigation, the Two-time Winner of the Best Home Inspection Company in the Midwest Plus the Winner of Consumer Choice Award for Columbus Ohio visit Home Inspection Columbus Ohio - Habitation Investigation (homeinspectionsinohio.com)


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For home buyers: What to expect from a home inspection. YT video for home buyers

Home Buyer and Seller Resources | Habitation Investigation

Heartland Commercial Property Inspections

If you would like to be a guest on the podcast contact us and let us know. You can visit Home (jimtroth.com) and go to the podcast page or message Habitation Investigation.

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Ever wondered how a slight mishap in your home could lead to serious health issues? Join Laura, our office goddess, and me as we uncover the surprising connection between a disconnected sump pump pipe and a homeowner's unexplained health problems. This episode promises to enlighten you on the crucial role of thorough home inspections, especially when dealing with recurring symptoms that seem to have no clear source. As we dissect this case, you'll gain insights into how easily hidden issues can persist without detection, often leaving homeowners baffled and frustrated.

But there's more than just uncovering hidden problems; we also stress the importance of regular home maintenance inspections. By drawing parallels with routine car maintenance, we highlight how proactive measures can save you from costly repairs and ensure your home remains a healthy living environment. First-time homebuyers and elderly homeowners, take note: a quarterly moisture maintenance inspection could be your key to peace of mind, particularly during the moisture-laden winter months. Tune in to hear our personal anecdotes and learn how a simple inspection can be the best gift you give to yourself or a loved one.

Support the show

To learn more about Habitation Investigation, the Two-time Winner of the Best Home Inspection Company in the Midwest Plus the Winner of Consumer Choice Award for Columbus Ohio visit Home Inspection Columbus Ohio - Habitation Investigation (homeinspectionsinohio.com)


Continuing Education for Ohio Agents Scheduled classes
Continuing Education for Ohio Agents Course listings

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For home buyers: What to expect from a home inspection. YT video for home buyers

Home Buyer and Seller Resources | Habitation Investigation

Heartland Commercial Property Inspections

If you would like to be a guest on the podcast contact us and let us know. You can visit Home (jimtroth.com) and go to the podcast page or message Habitation Investigation.

Send us a text

Unlock the secrets to mastering reviews and setting your business apart from the crowd. Join us on the Standing Out in Ohio podcast as we promise to transform your approach to year-end planning with strategic insights for real estate professionals and entrepreneurs. Discover how understanding your numbers, particularly in marketing, can equip you with a powerful roadmap for the year ahead. We emphasize the untapped potential of referrals and share actionable advice on how you can become a magnet for them. Our candid discussion extends to the invaluable experiences gleaned from mastermind groups, offering fresh perspectives and solutions to whatever challenges you may face. Moreover, we delve into the world of client reviews, underscoring their vital role in boosting your business’s visibility and credibility in a saturated market.

Navigating the often tricky waters of customer feedback is a journey in itself, and we're here to guide you. Ignoring complaints can inadvertently validate them, which is why we focus on the art of responding to negative reviews with integrity and tact. Learn how a well-crafted response can transform even the harshest criticism into a golden opportunity for growth. We share real-life incidents of going above and beyond for clients, underlining the moral obligations tied to honesty in business. While not every client will always be satisfied, our conversation reinforces the importance of sticking to your company’s core values and responding constructively. Tune in as we chart a course through the intricate landscape of customer interaction, ensuring that you not only survive but thrive in this competitive environment.

Support the show

To learn more about Habitation Investigation, the Two-time Winner of the Best Home Inspection Company in the Midwest Plus the Winner of Consumer Choice Award for Columbus Ohio visit Home Inspection Columbus Ohio - Habitation Investigation (homeinspectionsinohio.com)


Continuing Education for Ohio Agents Scheduled classes
Continuing Education for Ohio Agents Course listings

Facebook Page Facebook

For home buyers: What to expect from a home inspection. YT video for home buyers

Home Buyer and Seller Resources | Habitation Investigation

Heartland Commercial Property Inspections

If you would like to be a guest on the podcast contact us and let us know. You can visit Home (jimtroth.com) and go to the podcast page or message Habitation Investigation.

Send us a text

What if navigating the complexities of real estate transactions could be as straightforward as brewing your morning coffee? This episode promises to equip you with the essential skills to manage expectations effectively, whether you’re a buyer or a seller dealing with home inspections. Through engaging anecdotes, we illuminate how unrealistic expectations—like a buyer yearning for the perfect, defect-free home—can throw a wrench in the deal. We also emphasize the importance of buyers thoroughly understanding the home inspection process to sidestep unnecessary letdowns. On the flip side, we stress the pivotal role of seller cooperation during inspections, addressing the bumps that occur when sellers dig their heels in or are unavailable. By the end of this conversation, you'll appreciate how clear communication and setting realistic expectations can smooth out the often bumpy road of real estate transactions.

Moving beyond buyer expectations, we shine a light on preparing sellers for home inspections, particularly in today's market conditions where utility shut-offs and financial hiccups are increasingly common. Personal stories highlight the importance of transparency and readiness, helping sellers avoid rushed inspections that might otherwise raise red flags for potential buyers. We share practical tips, from accommodating longer tests like mold and radon checks to offering resources that guide sellers and agents through the pre-inspection process. Wrapping up, we take a moment to celebrate our recent accolades, such as the Best of Midwest and Consumer Choice Award, and invite our listeners to stay engaged through our social media platforms and podcast subscriptions for more enlightening discussions.

Support the show

To learn more about Habitation Investigation, the Two-time Winner of the Best Home Inspection Company in the Midwest Plus the Winner of Consumer Choice Award for Columbus Ohio visit Home Inspection Columbus Ohio - Habitation Investigation (homeinspectionsinohio.com)


Continuing Education for Ohio Agents Scheduled classes
Continuing Education for Ohio Agents Course listings

Facebook Page Facebook

For home buyers: What to expect from a home inspection. YT video for home buyers

Home Buyer and Seller Resources | Habitation Investigation

Heartland Commercial Property Inspections

If you would like to be a guest on the podcast contact us and let us know. You can visit Home (jimtroth.com) and go to the podcast page or message Habitation Investigation.

Send us a text

Can hiring a home inspector really be as random as flipping a coin? Join us as we tackle the perplexing challenges and strategies of recruiting the right talent in the home inspection industry. Whether you're weighing the benefits of hiring newcomers versus seasoned professionals, we bring personal anecdotes and proven methods to light. Our conversation uncovers the inherent challenges posed by licensing requirements and the delicate balance of aligning these hires with your company's standards. Discover why our most successful hires often stem from customer service backgrounds and how this insight can transform your own hiring process.

We also delve into the ongoing debate of training versus hiring pre-licensed individuals. Through sharing our experiences, we reveal why inspectors trained in-house with a focus on strong service mentality and moral character tend to outperform their peers. We also candidly discuss the threat of other companies poaching these well-trained inspectors and how a structured training program can mitigate these risks. Amidst professional musings, we touch on our personal aspirations, like building forts and launching a new podcast with friendly competitions, underscoring the importance of a cohesive, adaptable team in achieving these goals.

What traits make an exceptional home inspector? We share our insights on the significance of work ethic, moral values, and a willingness to learn. Sports experience can often indicate resilience and teamwork, translating well into the workplace environment. Our preference for "blank slate" candidates open to training and mentorship is discussed, alongside the advantages of bilingual team members. With a humorous nod to our past hiring adventures, we highlight the importance of thoroughly assessing candidates—including their social media presence—to ensure they truly align with company culture. Stay connected with us for more insights as we navigate the complex world of hiring in the real estate and home inspection industries.

Support the show

To learn more about Habitation Investigation, the Two-time Winner of the Best Home Inspection Company in the Midwest Plus the Winner of Consumer Choice Award for Columbus Ohio visit Home Inspection Columbus Ohio - Habitation Investigation (homeinspectionsinohio.com)


Continuing Education for Ohio Agents Scheduled classes
Continuing Education for Ohio Agents Course listings

Facebook Page Facebook

For home buyers: What to expect from a home inspection. YT video for home buyers

Home Buyer and Seller Resources | Habitation Investigation

Heartland Commercial Property Inspections

If you would like to be a guest on the podcast contact us and let us know. You can visit Home (jimtroth.com) and go to the podcast page or message Habitation Investigation.

Send us a text

What happens when you decide to uproot your life and sell a home filled with over two decades of cherished memories? Join us on a heartfelt journey as we recount the emotional rollercoaster of selling our beloved family home of 22 years. From the early days when our daughters were tiny tots, to making the decision to move on, this episode captures the essence of saying goodbye and embracing change. With the help of our trusted real estate agent, Judy Wilson from Howard Hanna, we navigated the selling process with organization and ease, making a potentially chaotic transition feel seamless.

Reflecting on this significant life change, we also revisit the origins of our business, Habitation Investigation, which was conceived just a month after settling into our now-sold home. The story of our business is intertwined with our personal growth and the incredible support from agents like Judy, who have been with us from the start. Tune in to explore themes of community, evolution, and new beginnings, and gain insights into how pivotal relationships can propel us forward, both personally and professionally.

Support the show

To learn more about Habitation Investigation, the Two-time Winner of the Best Home Inspection Company in the Midwest Plus the Winner of Consumer Choice Award for Columbus Ohio visit Home Inspection Columbus Ohio - Habitation Investigation (homeinspectionsinohio.com)


Continuing Education for Ohio Agents Scheduled classes
Continuing Education for Ohio Agents Course listings

Facebook Page Facebook

For home buyers: What to expect from a home inspection. YT video for home buyers

Home Buyer and Seller Resources | Habitation Investigation

Heartland Commercial Property Inspections

If you would like to be a guest on the podcast contact us and let us know. You can visit Home (jimtroth.com) and go to the podcast page or message Habitation Investigation.

Send us a text

What if you moved into a condo with a perfectly good roof, only to face a hefty assessment fee for its replacement just a short time later? On this episode of the Standing Out in Ohio podcast, join Jim Troth and Laura, our office goddess, as we tackle the perplexing world of condo association decisions and their financial implications. We share a listener's frustrating experience with an unexpected roof replacement decision made by their condo association, despite a promising home inspection report. We illuminate the often murky operations of condo associations, explaining how their large-scale project decisions can stem from strategic financial planning or reactions to external events, like the tragic condo collapse in Florida.

For those navigating the condo-buying process, this episode is a goldmine. We discuss a proactive strategy: insist on reviewing the condo association's reserve study before signing on the dotted line. This detailed document could save you from financial surprises, outlining anticipated maintenance and repairs. Whether you're a real estate professional keen to protect your clients or a potential condo buyer looking to avoid hidden pitfalls, we offer valuable insights to empower your decision-making process and safeguard your investment. Tune in and equip yourself with the knowledge to face the complex landscape of condo ownership with confidence.

Support the show

To learn more about Habitation Investigation, the Two-time Winner of the Best Home Inspection Company in the Midwest Plus the Winner of Consumer Choice Award for Columbus Ohio visit Home Inspection Columbus Ohio - Habitation Investigation (homeinspectionsinohio.com)


Continuing Education for Ohio Agents Scheduled classes
Continuing Education for Ohio Agents Course listings

Facebook Page Facebook

For home buyers: What to expect from a home inspection. YT video for home buyers

Home Buyer and Seller Resources | Habitation Investigation

Heartland Commercial Property Inspections

If you would like to be a guest on the podcast contact us and let us know. You can visit Home (jimtroth.com) and go to the podcast page or message Habitation Investigation.

Send us a text

Ever found yourself caught in the crossfire of a home inspection gone due to seller opinions? Join Laura Troth and me, Jim Troth, as we unravel the tale of a home seller whose explosive reaction over a furnace's manufacture date led to unexpected drama. You’ll learn how something as seemingly trivial as the date on a furnace can ignite tension, and why it's essential to rely on professional inspections for peace of mind. We share our frontline experiences and the lessons learned, offering a glimpse into the unpredictable world of home inspections.

This episode doesn’t just stop at drama; it ventures into the wider landscape of real estate transactions. We explore how trust, communication, and accurate information are pivotal in navigating property sales. Whether you're a seasoned real estate professional, a buyer, or a seller, tune in to uncover insights that could give you an edge in Ohio's competitive market. Get ready for a candid discussion on how to manage misunderstandings and stand out in the bustling world of real estate.

Support the show

To learn more about Habitation Investigation, the Two-time Winner of the Best Home Inspection Company in the Midwest Plus the Winner of Consumer Choice Award for Columbus Ohio visit Home Inspection Columbus Ohio - Habitation Investigation (homeinspectionsinohio.com)


Continuing Education for Ohio Agents Scheduled classes
Continuing Education for Ohio Agents Course listings

Facebook Page Facebook

For home buyers: What to expect from a home inspection. YT video for home buyers

Home Buyer and Seller Resources | Habitation Investigation

Heartland Commercial Property Inspections

If you would like to be a guest on the podcast contact us and let us know. You can visit Home (jimtroth.com) and go to the podcast page or message Habitation Investigation.

Send us a text

Ever wondered how staying calm and composed can impact a real estate transaction? Discover the crucial strategies for managing stress as a professional that can transform your client relationships. We share a fascinating real-life scenario where an agent's unnecessary panic nearly skewed a client's perception during a home inspection. Learn how keeping your cool not only facilitates smoother transactions but also strengthens trust and communication with your clients. We'll also touch on our recent improvements in podcast sound quality, ensuring you have a better listening experience.

Next, we spotlight the indispensable role of home inspectors in ensuring a perfect match between buyers and their dream homes. Just like dating, the right house needs to meet the buyer's expectations, and unbiased reports are key. Through engaging anecdotes, we reveal the variety of buyer preferences and the complications that arise when repairs aren't properly addressed. From issues with electrical panels to chimney repairs, we stress the importance of skilled contractors to avoid delays. This episode offers valuable insights into achieving successful real estate transactions while safeguarding both buyers and inspectors.

Support the show

To learn more about Habitation Investigation, the Two-time Winner of the Best Home Inspection Company in the Midwest Plus the Winner of Consumer Choice Award for Columbus Ohio visit Home Inspection Columbus Ohio - Habitation Investigation (homeinspectionsinohio.com)


Continuing Education for Ohio Agents Scheduled classes
Continuing Education for Ohio Agents Course listings

Facebook Page Facebook

For home buyers: What to expect from a home inspection. YT video for home buyers

Home Buyer and Seller Resources | Habitation Investigation

Heartland Commercial Property Inspections

If you would like to be a guest on the podcast contact us and let us know. You can visit Home (jimtroth.com) and go to the podcast page or message Habitation Investigation.

Send us a text

Ever had a seller accuse you of breaking a ceiling tile with a dog toy? Jim and Laura, the office goddess, share eyebrow-raising tales from the real estate world where truth sometimes becomes stranger than fiction. In this episode of the Standing Out in Ohio podcast, we unravel the chaos that ensues when misunderstandings occur during home inspections and real estate showings. Learn from our personal experiences about how to protect yourself from outlandish claims and maintain a strong reputation in the competitive real estate market.

Discover our bulletproof strategy to safeguard against false allegations: recording an exit video after each inspection. We guide you through this simple yet effective process, starting from showing the water meter to taking a brief video tour of the property. This practice not only fosters transparency and accountability but also provides peace of mind for everyone involved. Stand out confidently in the marketplace with our insights and practical advice, ensuring that you cover all your bases and keep your assets protected.

Support the show

To learn more about Habitation Investigation, the Two-time Winner of the Best Home Inspection Company in the Midwest Plus the Winner of Consumer Choice Award for Columbus Ohio visit Home Inspection Columbus Ohio - Habitation Investigation (homeinspectionsinohio.com)


Continuing Education for Ohio Agents Scheduled classes
Continuing Education for Ohio Agents Course listings

Facebook Page Facebook

For home buyers: What to expect from a home inspection. YT video for home buyers

Home Buyer and Seller Resources | Habitation Investigation

Heartland Commercial Property Inspections

If you would like to be a guest on the podcast contact us and let us know. You can visit Home (jimtroth.com) and go to the podcast page or message Habitation Investigation.