Starting my home inspection business was an unexpected journey that first began with a setback. When COVID hit the United States in March 2020, I was downsized from my job, just like so many others. My first priority was my mother, Mary. She was in a senior living facility facing those uncertain times isolated in her apartment. I talked to my wife on Friday after I found out my job news and we agreed to have her pack her bags and come live with us. She was settled in our guest room on that Monday. What a blessing to have her in our home each day knowing she was safe and surrounded by family as the pandemic continued. She had a number of health issues but we had so many great days together. Mary loved to start each morning with a grilled cheese sandwich, tomato soup, and rousing game of Rummy. Or two or three. She passed away later that year at the beautiful age of 98!!!
Facing a tough job market and an uncertain future after 40 years in Corporate America, I saw an opportunity rather than a roadblock. Early in 2021 I ended up remodeling our home from top to bottom. A contractor finished the major kitchen remodel but I completed everything else in our 3 bedroom rambler. I was able to put all my skills and abilities (and tools) to work and turn the house we purchased into our dream home. In June of that year I decided to take all the necessary training to become a certified professional inspector and start a home inspection business. This allowed me to combine my knowledge of homes and construction with a strong desire to provide service and value to others in a time of need.
In my LLC I made sure I included "Home Services" as part of the name. This includes small repairs, remodels on residential homes, and of course snowblowing in the winter months. I also wanted the ability to perform my own radon measurements based on an early conversation with a realtor friend. Fulfilling the Minnesota Department of Health requirements for a license ended up being quite a time commitment but I enjoy having this as an option for my clients. I have also partnered with two different companies. One for additional inspections and draws related to 203(k) loans and another for radon measurements. This has really helped my business grow and has allowed for multiple streams of income. (see attached chart)
The early days were challenging, from learning the ropes of running a small business to building trust with clients during a pandemic. Yet, with determination, flexibility, and a commitment to quality, I started to gain traction. Each inspection helped me refine my skills, build my reputation, and earn referrals. People began to recognize the care I put into my work, and slowly but surely, my business grew.
Today, revenue from my home inspection business has grown over fourfold from those early days. I’ve conducted nearly 30 inspections and draws this past year alone—a milestone that seemed distant at the start. My hope is that the housing industry will get a boost in 2025 and my phone will ring even more frequently. This journey has taught me resilience, adaptability, and the rewards of betting on yourself when the odds seem stacked against you. What began as a musing way back in 2015 has become a fulfilling, thriving business I’m proud to call my own.
This is just one of the many things I am grateful for as we approach Thanksgiving. GO WEST EGG!!!
Great story. Keep it up.