Why Home Inspectors are Licensed in Ohio: Home inspectors in Ohio are licensed to ensure they meet specific standards of practice and ethics. The licensing law took effect in 2021 and helps protect consumers by ensuring that inspectors have the necessary training, knowledge, and skills to perform thorough and accurate inspections. It also provides a level of accountability and professionalism within the industry.

Where to Find the Licensed List on the State of Ohio Website

You can find the list of licensed home inspectors on the Ohio Division of Real Estate & Professional Licensing website. Here are the steps to access it:

1. Go to the License Look-Up page.
2. Enter the inspector’s name in the search fields provided.
3. Click “Search” to view the inspector’s license status and details.

Why Buyers Should Retain Inspectors for Both New and Existing Homes

Retaining a home inspector for both new and existing homes is crucial for several reasons:

• Identifying Hidden Issues: Inspectors can uncover hidden problems that may not be visible to the untrained eye, such as structural issues, plumbing problems, or electrical hazards.
• Ensuring Code Compliance: For new homes, inspectors ensure that the construction meets local building codes and standards, preventing future costly repairs.
• Safety: Inspectors evaluate critical safety systems, such as electrical wiring and plumbing, to ensure they are functioning correctly and safely.
• Investment Protection: A thorough inspection can save buyers money in the long run by identifying issues early, allowing for repairs or negotiations before finalizing the purchase.

Note on Licensing Expertise

While home inspectors in Ohio are licensed, it’s important to note that their licensing may not cover specific areas of expertise such as engineering, electrical work, masonry, or plumbing. For detailed evaluations in these specialized fields, it may be necessary to hire additional professionals with the appropriate certifications and expertise.

Community Announcement: A New Chapter with Pillar To Post

This past July there was a significant transition within the Pillar To Post franchise in Central Ohio. Last summer, Skip Howell, known for his dedication to providing thorough and reliable home inspections, retired to spend more time with his family. After letting the dust settle, we are excited to introduce Michael Virgin as the new owner of the Pillar To Post franchise. Michael brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to the business, ensuring that the high standards set by Skip continue to be upheld.

Michael has lived in Upper Arlington for the last 25+ years and is a father of two sons and a daughter. He is a veteran and has spent over 30 years in the insurance industry as an agent, broker, and insurance agency owner. About a year ago, Michael decided he wanted a new professional challenge. The home inspection business was a natural fit for Michael, given his background in helping clients protect their homes and his extensive network of valuable business relationships with realtors, title companies, lenders, and contractors.

Over the last ten years, Michael has also been a real estate investor, purchasing and refurbishing more than a dozen homes and currently serving as a landlord to families all around the Columbus area. Owning and operating a home inspection business aligns perfectly with his experience and skills acquired over the last 30 years. Pillar To Post was an easy choice because of their outstanding reputation, the quality of their inspections, and the support they offer to their franchise owners. Every other home inspection company was a distant second to Pillar To Post, and Michael has not regretted choosing them for one minute.

Navigating the Choices in Home Inspection Companies

At Ohio Broker Direct, we understand the importance of working with reliable home inspection companies. Our sellers and buyers have worked with numerous excellent inspection companies over the years, each offering various services and expertise. We strive to navigate this conglomerate of options to ensure our clients receive the best possible service tailored to their needs. With the addition of Michael Virgin and Pillar To Post, to our extensive list of highly qualified and experienced home inspectors, we are confident that this collaboration will enhance the quality of our services and ensure the best outcomes for our clients.

Benefits to Realtors, Sellers, and Buyers

For Realtors:

• Enhanced Credibility: Partnering with a trusted home inspection company like Pillar To Post enhances your credibility with clients, showing that you prioritize thorough and reliable inspections.
• Streamlined Process: Their detailed inspection reports, complete with pictures and clear explanations, help streamline the buying and selling process, making it easier for realtors to address any issues promptly.
• Continuing Education: Michael offers free Real Estate CE classes every month, providing valuable knowledge and keeping realtors up-to-date with industry standards and practices.

For Sellers:

• Increased Marketability: A pre-listing inspection can identify and address potential issues before listing, making the property more attractive to buyers and potentially increasing its market value.
• Transparency: Providing a comprehensive inspection report to potential buyers builds trust and transparency, reducing the likelihood of last-minute surprises and negotiations.
• Prime Spring Market: Rolling into the prime time of the spring market is the perfect opportunity to list with Ohio Broker Direct. The increased buyer activity during this season ensures greater visibility and quicker sales, maximizing your property’s potential.
• Flat Fee MLS Listings: Save money with Ohio Broker Direct’s flat fee MLS listing options. These listings provide excellent service and support at a fraction of the cost, making the selling process more affordable while maintaining high-quality exposure.

For Buyers:

• Peace of Mind: A thorough home inspection ensures that buyers are fully informed about the condition of the property, helping them make confident and informed decisions.
• Negotiation Power: Armed with a detailed inspection report, buyers have the information they need to negotiate repairs or price adjustments, ensuring they get the best value for their investment.

Listing with Ohio Broker Direct

As we enter the vibrant spring market, listing with Ohio Broker Direct provides unparalleled benefits. The increased buyer activity during this season ensures that your property receives maximum exposure, leading to quicker sales and the best possible return on your investment. Our expertise, combined with our collaboration with top-tier home inspection companies like Pillar To Post, guarantees a smooth and efficient selling process, allowing you to capitalize on the peak market conditions. Additionally, Ohio Broker Direct offers limited service listing options that can save you money while still providing excellent service and support throughout the selling process.

Clients can order an inspection by calling Michael’s dedicated inspection team at 614-269-7941 or ordering online from his website. Michael can be reached at his mobile number, 614-203-2269, for any questions or to schedule an inspection or CE class. If you are a real estate broker or a team lead would like him to come to your office and give an in-person or remote learning continuing education class, please call him with your desired date and time, and he will put it on the schedule.