We've got another show for y'all from InterNACHI 2025! While we usually like to have a topic on hand, trade shows are great because they allow for a bit of unstructured conversation. So, in this episode with Shawn Mizell and Kelsey Soderlund, we talk about unique homes and experiences from inspecting in Texas, Florida, and Massachusetts. We get into the challenges, opportunities and, impact of last fall's hurricanes. We go deep on the importance of networking, adapting to market changes... and maybe the most importantly... we get into the various vehicles we've used for inspections, and why a truck isn't always the best option. If you weren't at InterNACHI, you should have been. But you can always come to Inspection Fuel this fall (sign up below)!

The TLDR:

• Home inspectors see some crazy sh-tuff.
• We love connecting with each other at inspection conferences.
• Adapting to market changes is crucial for business sustainability.
• Vehicles play a significant role in the efficiency of home inspections.
• Post-hurricane inspections can create new business opportunities.
• Using unconventional vehicles can help inspectors stand out.
• Learning from others can lead to significant improvements in business practices.
• Social media is a powerful tool for building connections in the industry.
• Personal experiences shape the way inspectors approach their work.

Today's episode is sponsored by Inspection Fuel 2025, taking place September 8-10 in New Orleans! Registration is LIVE NOW so sign up at: https://www.inspectionfuel.com/register

The best part about home inspection conferences is getting to hang out with people from parts of the country. And with Double Scope Inspections from Melbourne, FL, we get to compare notes about how last Fall's hurricanes affected the Gulf and Atlantic coasts and business in the aftermath of the storms.

Takeaways

• Building science encompasses durability, comfort, health, and efficiency.
• Improving energy efficiency can reduce the need for solar panels.
• Air sealing is crucial for maintaining indoor air quality.
• Solar energy may not be cost-effective in Texas due to low energy prices.
• A well-ventilated home is essential for preventing mold and maintaining comfort.
• Homeowners can easily tackle air sealing projects themselves.
• The roof is the first line of defense against water damage.
• Controlled ventilation is necessary for modern energy-efficient homes.
• Identifying and addressing energy leaks can significantly improve comfort.
• A holistic approach to home performance leads to better outcomes. Humidity is often misunderstood as the main culprit in home issues.
• Controlled ventilation is crucial for managing indoor air quality.
• Building codes can create unintended consequences in home performance.
• Air tightness can improve energy efficiency but may introduce new problems.
• Consumer demand drives builders to adopt new practices and materials.
• The roofing industry lacks regulation, leading to varied quality.
• Educating consumers is essential for improving construction standards.
• Collaboration among contractors can elevate industry practices.
• Innovative products can address long-standing issues in construction.
• Continuous learning is vital for adapting to new building challenges.

Solar has gotten popular in Texas, and it's long been popular in FL. But before dropping tens of thousands on it, you should know that there are WAY EASIER and more cost effective ways to improve your home's efficiency. So join us and Travis Jones of Smart Roof & Home Performance as we discuss various aspects of building science, energy efficiency, and solar energy, particularly in the context of Texas. They explore the importance of improving home durability, the role of air sealing and ventilation, and the challenges of solar energy adoption in the region. Travis Jones shares his expertise in roofing and home performance, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach to home improvement that prioritizes energy efficiency before considering solar solutions. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the complexities of modern building practices, focusing on issues such as humidity control, ventilation, and the impact of building codes on home performance. They discuss the trade-offs of energy efficiency versus traditional building methods, the challenges faced by contractors in the roofing industry, and the importance of educating consumers about quality construction. The conversation also highlights innovative products showcased at a recent builders conference, emphasizing the need for continuous learning and adaptation in the construction field.

TLDR:

• Building science encompasses durability, comfort, health, and efficiency.
• Improving energy efficiency can reduce the need for solar panels. 
• Air sealing is crucial for maintaining indoor air quality.
• Solar energy may not be cost-effective in Texas due to low energy prices.
• A well-ventilated home is essential for preventing mold and maintaining comfort.
• Homeowners can easily tackle air sealing projects themselves.
• The roof is the first line of defense against water damage.
• Controlled ventilation is necessary for modern energy-efficient homes.
• Identifying and addressing energy leaks can significantly improve comfort.
• A holistic approach to home performance leads to better outcomes.
• Humidity is often misunderstood as the main culprit in home issues.
• Controlled ventilation is crucial for managing indoor air quality.
• Building codes can create unintended consequences in home performance.
• Air tightness can improve energy efficiency but may introduce new problems.
• Consumer demand drives builders to adopt new practices and materials.
• The roofing industry lacks regulation, leading to varied quality.
• Educating consumers is essential for improving construction standards.
• Collaboration among contractors can elevate industry practices.
• Innovative products can address long-standing issues in construction.
• Continuous learning is vital for adapting to new building challenges.

Ever seen two inspectors fight? You will here... well, nicely. In fact, this might be the most gentlemanly fight ever. With Brad Lowery moderating, Matt Brading, and Beau Brown duke it out discussing the intersection of artificial intelligence and home inspection. They explore the benefits and challenges of integrating AI into the inspection process, emphasizing the importance of human expertise and experience. The discussion also touches on the significance of builder conferences and the evolving landscape of the construction industry. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the implications of AI and technology in the home inspection industry. They explore the potential benefits and limitations of AI as a tool, emphasizing that it should not be seen as a replacement for human inspectors. The discussion also touches on the importance of proper marketing and understanding the legal ramifications of using technology in inspections. Simply put, tools are useful so long as they're used properly.

THE TLDR:

• Home inspectors and builders are intertwined in their work.
• AI can enhance knowledge about building products.
• AI should augment, not replace, human inspectors.
• Homeowners need to understand the limitations of AI.
• Experience in inspections is irreplaceable by AI.
• New inspectors may misuse AI without proper knowledge.
• Builder conferences provide valuable networking opportunities.
• AI can streamline the inspection process.
• The future of home inspections will involve both AI and human expertise.
• Proper marketing is essential for technology implementation.
• Lawsuits will impact the adoption of AI in inspections.
• AI can streamline tedious tasks but has limitations.
• Networking at industry events is valuable for growth.
• Understanding code is crucial for builders and inspectors.
• AI can enhance efficiency but cannot replace human intuition.
• The building industry is evolving with new technologies.
• Staying forward-thinking is important for professionals.
• Beta testing new tools can provide valuable insights.

In this episode of the Ride Along podcast, hosts Brad Lowery and Matt Brading discuss the journey of home inspections, the challenges of balancing work and life, and the importance of social media in the industry. They share personal experiences, insights on managing a home inspection business, and future plans for collaborations and events, including the upcoming InterNACHI conference.

TLDR:

• Home inspections can provide the freedom to build the life you want.
• Running a business often comes with increased workload and responsibilities.
• Social media can be a powerful tool for home inspectors to showcase their work.
• It's important to find a balance between work and personal life.
• Having a team can help maintain business operations while taking time off.
• Choosing which jobs to take can lead to a more fulfilling work experience.
• Effective communication with clients is crucial during inspections.
• Utilizing technology can enhance the efficiency of home inspections.
• Networking with other professionals can lead to valuable collaborations.
• Planning for future growth is essential for sustaining a business.

Building an industry-leading business never stops, and it all starts with how you're developing yourself. If you've listened to the show this year, you've heard Harmony Brown of Greenworks Inspections often. But instead of co-hosting for this episode... she's fresh off the heels of delivering the Keynote address at Inspection Fuel 2024. She's one of the easiest people to talk to, and every conversation is entrepreneurial gold! So listen, subscribe, share... all the things.

Daniel Burkhead is no stranger to the home inspection industry, or to entrepreneurship... but even "seasoned" (not old) dogs can learn new tricks, and Dan has grown his social media content presence dramatically in just a couple short years, and his business has benefited as a result! The key? Just being consistent... and being himself. As for you yourself? You should like the episode and subscribe to the channel.

Oh, and go check out Dan on TikTok and YouTube at:  @InspectorDanB 

It's easy to get locked into scaling your business within the confines of your industry. The problem is hitting a ceiling and not knowing what to do next. Especially in the home inspection industry, it's common for companies to find themselves doing the same things with a different name. So, how do you diversify? You look outside your industry in search of opportunities that parallel what you're already doing, which utilize the things you're already learning. That's how Kal Patel has found success in everything from home inspection franchising, to hospitality, to urgent care health... and now social media marketing! He's also a connoisseur of excellent bourbon. Listen, learn, apply, and grow! Oh and subscribe to the show ;)

It's conference season! And that means I get to hang out with some of the most awesome people in the industry, like Matt Brading ( @texas.edge.inspect  ) and Chris Murphy ( @AActionHomeInspectionHouston  )! If you're trying to level up your video marketing and online presence, these are two guys you want to meet! This is just one of many amazing interviews with industry leading home inspectors recorded live on site at Inspection Fuel 2024 in Dallas, so stay tuned and subscribe for more!

WE LET A COMPETITOR ON OUR SHOW! Have you ever noticed how CVS and Walgreens are often right across from each other? That's a perfect example of why competition is good for everybody. And the home inspection industry is no different! No company owns the market when it comes to inspection software and services... but we ALL love seeing each other innovate, because it drives us to do the same. Inspectors should love that too, because that equals better tools in their hands... which leads to better run businesses. So, the trickledown effect of competition just results in a massive benefit for EVERYbody.