The premier source for home inspector news and information. Whether you're a homebuyer or a licensed home inspector, you'll find valuable insight on the world of home inspection training and competency on this blog.
New home sale figures released from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) have further confirmed that the U.S. housing market is undergoing a sharp adjustment. And while this comes with a host of complications, it presents opportunities not just for careful homebuyers, but also for individuals thinking of a real estate career, particularly for licensed home inspectors.
The NAR reported that existing homes sales in August dropped 12% compared to 2006. In the West, home sales were down an eye opening 21% compared to the previous year. Make no mistake about it, these numbers aren't promising, but as Wall Street traders have known for years - there are opportunities for people who can spot potential in sluggish times.
Even people in Southern California with short memories, recall the massive downturn in the area's housing market in the mid-1990s. As we all know, the market rebounded and homeowners in the Los Angeles area (as well as around much of the country) built up impressive equity in their houses. And while homeowners benefited, so did real estate agents, brokers, real estate appraisers and licensed home inspectors. Allied Real Estate School offers online training for real estate agents and brokers.
The real estate cycle is often compared to peaks and valleys. While we are now in the valley of the housing market, people considering a real estate career can receive their training and get ready to step out onto the peak when home sales come around again. And for certified home inspectors, in particular, their home inspection training and services will still be in demand even if the market is slow to recover; while money is tight, buyers and sellers will look to a quality home inspection job as a form of security.
The fact still remains that millions of homes are bought and sold each year. As the market slips, some real estate agents and licensed home inspectors will exit the business altogether: returning to the steady nine-to-five world or retraining for a new career. When the market rebounds, it will open more career positions in the real estate industry.
Individuals who want to become a home inspector should make sure that the home inspection school they attend is accredited and associated with industry groups, such as the National Association of Certified Home Inspectors (NACHI). There is no substitute for top-notch home inspection training.
Labels: become a home inspector, Certified home inspectors, home inspector, National Association of Realtors
