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Jason Day

Leaving the Right Impression

11-18-08
Jason Day

Leaving the right Impression


First Class Property Inspection understands that a three-hour inspection might be a lot to remember and digest.

This is why we use digital cameras, and laptops to capture, store and generate information right on site. We will make it a point to snap pictures regularly to provide a visual log (and proof) you can refer back to at anytime; pictures that can come in handy when dealing with potential buyers, real estate agents or possible contractors, repairmen and insurance agents.

Of course, all the training, licenses and technical expertise in the world can't replace a dedicated inspector who can level with you at the end of the day. Our top priority is to ensure you will ultimately be able to differentiate between major and minor problems and know exactly how to remedy any problems.

Not only a Home Inspector

11-18-08
Jason Day

Not only a Home Inspector!

I thought I would blog a little on my other occupation. I not only am a Licensed Home Inspector I am also a US Navy Chief Petty Officer.

I have about 15 years in the Navy, most of which at this point is my Reserve time. Last year I spent 9 months over in Kuwait in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. My job over there was to maintain an Automotive Repair Parts Facility. In short, I was in charge of a $13,000,000 Automotive Store for the Seabees. My real job in the Navy is a Cook. That's right! I am a Chief Culinary Arts Specialist. I don't get much training in that area due to fact the military does a lot of out sourcing.

A jack of all trades you might say...I also am a certified Navy Barber. That's right...a Barber. I opened a barber shop while in Kuwait last year as well. I cut over 1,000 heads of hair during a 3 month span. Not all of which was just a quick buz cut. Those that wanted more than a buz cut really left their head in my hands. Yep, I messed some up and they still got that simple GI cut. Sorry guys!!

You know life is short and I want to think that I have tried to take advantage of being well rounded as an individule. Life isn't all about the money, but what you can provide to someone else to help make them successfull and happy. We all will make mistakes during our journey however, it is how we handle those mistakes.

What Really Matters

11-17-08
Jason Day

Buying a home? The process can be stressful. A home inspection is supposed to give you peace of mind, but often has the opposite effect. You will be asked to absorb a lot of information in a short time. This often includes a written report, checklist, photographs, environmental reports and what the inspector himself says during the inspection. All this combined with the seller's disclosure and what you notice yourself makes the experience even more overwhelming. What should you do?

Relax. Most of your inspection will be maintenance recommendations, life expectancies and minor imperfections. These are nice to know about. However, the issues that really matter will fall into four categories:

  1. Major defects. An example of this would be a structural failure.
  2. Things that lead to major defects. A small roof-flashing leak, for example.
  3. Things that may hinder your ability to finance, legally occupy or insure the home.
  4. Safety hazards, such as an exposed, live buss bar at the electric panel.

Anything in these categories should be addressed. Often a serious problem can be corrected inexpensively to protect both life and property (especially in categories 2 and 4).

Most sellers are honest and are often surprised to learn of defects uncovered during an inspection. Realize that sellers are under no obligation to repair everything mentioned in the report. No home is perfect. Keep things in perspective. Do not kill your deal over things that do not matter. It is inappropriate to demand that a seller address deferred maintenance, conditions already listed on the seller's disclosure or nit-picky items.