But is it right for you?

Not everyone has what it takes in background or personality to make a go of it as a home inspector. Our experience and market research demonstrate that successful home inspectors have certain characteristics and skills in common. Clearly, an interest in construction and knowing how things work will make the work easier and more interesting. Yet equally, if not more important, are people and communication skills. Once you've acquired the technical knowledge, your business success will depend on your ability to effectively explain your findings and to get along with all kinds of people.

You should also give serious consideration to the physical demands of the profession. While you needn't be an Olympian athlete, you will be required to climb ladders, crawl into small spaces, and bend and twist in order to inspect hard-to-reach areas. One of the most rewarding aspects of the home inspection profession is the fact that you are always learning and discovering. There are new challenges and opportunities every day, and you are not likely to get bored quickly.

There is also a growing number of inspection-related web sites on the Internet that offer technical updates and the possibility of networking with professional colleagues.

Are you the kind of person who:

• has a technical mind and likes to figure things out
• enjoys meeting and helping people
• is organized and clear-thinking
• hates sitting at a desk all day
• is willing to learn
• has initiative

Then home inspection could be the right career choice for you.