Congratulations, you've found the house you want to buy and had your home inspection. Chances are, there were a few issues that came up during the home inspection, and now you need to figure out what to do. So, what are the best ways to handle this? As a home...

One of the services we provide is FHA 203(k) and Fannie Mae HomeStyle consulting. Both of us are 203(k) Consultants, and we really enjoy this part of being a home inspector. Going back, one of the drivers that lead us to become home inspectors is that it's a required...

Congratulations, you've found the perfect home to buy! Right about now, you are probably on information overload and looking for resources to get everything ready. One of the most important steps you need to take after getting that ratified contract is to get the home...

Today's post is a bit different from my past posts, as all of the issues are from one house.  I inspected this house for an investor client and couldn't believe the number of issues I found. The trim around the house was deteriorated in several locations....

Did you know the following facts about lead? FACT: Lead exposure can harm young children and babies even before they are born. FACT: Even children who seem healthy can have high levels of lead in their bodies. FACT: You can get lead in your body by breathing or...

This first one is from a condo inspection.  The black hose attached to the PVC sink trap under the kitchen sink was for the washing machine.  Notice that it attaches after the trap.  Needless to say, while I was running the kitchen sink, I was smelling...

First off, I will apologize for the pause in posting.  The last couple of weeks have been very busy.  Part of the reason for that has been the announcement of the new "We'll Buy Your Home" Guarantee by InterNACHI.  Anyone who has owned a home...

With all the TV shows about flipping houses today, it seems that everyone thinks they can do it too.  While the TV shows show some of the problems the flippers run into, they don't show all the details and planning that go into a good flip.  And trust me, it's the...

Attention Texas Real Estate Agents!  Like you, I understand the chore of having to do continuing education.  What's even worse is having to pay someone else to take these courses just to maintain your license.  Because of this, I'm happy to be able to...

Are you buying a home built before 1978?  Maybe you live in one currently.  If so, please read on. Lead was a common additive to paint up until it was banned from use in residential housing.  As a paint additive, it worked great.  Unfortunately,...