You Passed. Now What?

A compass to lead new home inspectors in the right direction

You studied hard. You passed the exam. You’re officially a licensed home inspector. Congratulations! That alone sets you apart from the many who never take the test, let alone pass that difficult exam or take the first steps to start their new business and career. But if you’re like most new inspectors, the celebration may be short-lived, as the next big questions hit:

“Where do I start?”

“How do I get that first job?”

“Then what?”

Welcome to the beginning of your career, but by no means is it the end of your training. This article isn’t a rigid checklist. It’s a compass heading in the right direction. It offers a way to find your bearings and take the first steps with direction, purpose, and confidence. Even if you are a seasoned home inspector, you can use this for a slight course adjustment to your business if needed. 

I’ve been a licensed home inspector for more than 13 years, operating and licensed in multiple states and performing thousands of inspections across all types of residential properties. For the past seven years, I’ve also had the privilege of speaking to real estate and home inspector organizations across the country, instructing and mentoring new home inspectors, helping them turn classroom knowledge into real-world confidence. I’ve seen firsthand what works, what doesn’t, and where most new inspectors struggle. This article comes not just from theory but from the trenches, rooftops, crawl spaces, and client kitchens where real inspections happen every day.

What I Wish I Knew as a New Inspector

Looking back, there are a few things I wish someone had told me right after I passed my exam. 

First: Every inspector feels unprepared at the start. That doubt? It’s normal. Push through it. Your confidence and training should come through with that experience to your client.

Second: Your report is your marketing. Long before someone meets you, they may see your work. Take pride in it. Keep it clean, clear, and free of technical jargon your client won’t understand.

Third: Agents don’t need perfection; they need professionalism. Be punctual, honest, and easy to work with. That matters more than knowing every minor detail, issue, or code.

Fourth: Stay humble. You’ll miss things. We all do. Learn from them and move forward, and own up to them if needed. This business greatly rewards lifelong learners.

And finally, most important: Get completely insured. Protect you, your referrals, your client, and your business from day one. It’s not just about liability, E&O, Inland Marine; it’s about peace of mind.

Start with Confidence—Not Perfection

It’s okay not to know everything. In fact, you won’t—and neither does anyone else in this business. No matter what anyone tells you, this is the truth. Confidence doesn’t come from being perfect; it comes from preparation and repetition.

Your first few inspections might feel awkward, but every job is a chance to grow your skills and sharpen your judgment. Stay grounded in your training, and never stop learning.

Inspecting the house is only half the job; the other half is communication. The way you greet your client, explain the process, and deliver your findings can make or break the experience.

Start with a calm, confident introduction. Explain what the inspection includes—and just as importantly, what it doesn’t. Set expectations clearly before stepping inside. This helps avoid confusion or conflict later.

Avoid alarmist language. Words like “disaster” or “unsafe” should only be used when absolutely necessary. Instead, explain conditions factually and focus on solutions. Be a calm in the storm, especially when buyers are nervous.

Finally, be available for questions—even after the inspection. That follow-up phone call or email builds trust and can lead to referrals.

Remember: You’re not just inspecting homes. You’re guiding people through a major life decision.

Your Network is Your First Marketing Tool

The most overlooked business tool for new inspectors? People. Yes, the people you know. Your first job is likely to come from someone you know—or someone who knows someone you know.

Sure, you can introduce yourself to local real estate offices, attend networking events in your area, and these are great tools, but tell your friends, family, and neighbors what you do, too. Your grassroots is the best way to start. You have to follow up and stay top-of-mind with everyone. 

This is a relationship business. Start investing in those relationships from day one. Use hospitality skills to win people over. 

Join a Professional Association 

Organizations like ASHI, InterNACHI, or your local state chapter can offer guidance, education, mentorship, and credibility.

Attend meetings. Volunteer at events, get involved with your organization. Ask seasoned inspectors for insight. You’ll be surprised how many are willing to share their hard-earned wisdom.

Focus on Tools and Reporting—Not Toys

It’s tempting to chase shiny objects—infrared cameras, drones, and the latest gadgets, and these tools have their place for a little more experienced inspector, but in the beginning, you need just a few basics and the skill to use them well:
■ Moisture meter

■ Flashlight

■ Ladder / pole camera for the tricky roofs

■ Receptacle testers

■ Reliable reporting software

■ Your PPE

Mastering your report writing will do more to build your reputation than any fancy tool ever will. Your report is your product—make it sharp, clear, and professional. Your report will get passed around more than you think. Take several report writing classes as soon as possible after your test. This is a great marketing tool when it’s done correctly. You can be the new inspector and win over clients, real estate agents, attorneys—basically everyone, with a well written report. Remember, any fool can create confusion. It takes genius to clarify and simplify for everyone.

Don’t Be Afraid to Shadow or Assist

One of the best ways to shorten your learning curve is to shadow experienced inspectors. Offer to assist—even for free—just to observe. Ask questions. Take notes. Watch how they interact with clients and agents.

These ridealongs are invaluable, even if they aren’t required by your training program. Professional associations like ASHI have mentorship programs; use these to your advantage when you join. 

Build Your Brand Before the Phone Rings

You don’t need a marketing team, but you do need visibility. Use these basic advertising/marketing tools to give weight to your business:

■ Create a basic website with your services, contact info, and a short bio

■ Claim your Google Business profile

■ Order professional business cards

■ Share useful tips on social media

■ Ask for testimonials from anyone who’s seen your work and/or your work ethic

A brilliant service nobody knows about is no better than no service at all.

Create Momentum While You Wait 

If business is slow at first (and it probably will be), don’t sit idle:

■ Re-inspect your own home to stay sharp. You will be surprised how you will see new things every time.

■ Do mock inspections for friends or family.

■ Practice your reports and build out your report software from your mock inspections.

■ Role play driveway presentations, client phone calls, and inspection walk-throughs. Perfecting these will make you look experienced on your first inspections. 

■ Start building a referral list of contractors, real estate agents, attorneys, mortgage brokers, and other industry professionals. Keep in touch with regular follow-ups. Keep your name and company atop of mind. Make the time work for you.

You’re Building, Not Arriving 

You don’t have to figure everything out on day one. You simply need to move forward every day with purpose.

Every home you inspect, every agent you meet, every report you complete—it all builds the foundation of your business. But remember, amateurs focus on the product. Professionals focus on the customer. Keep your client top of mind when you are building your business. 

Don’t panic. Don’t wait for perfection. Take the first step and keep going.

Your compass is set. It’s time to move.

Henry Sander is an ASHI Certified Inspector and owner of Heartland Home Inspections in Illinois. He is NIC-ASHI board president and educational director and vendor coordinator for the Northern Illinois Chapter of ASHI.