Friday, July 15, 2011

Become A Foreclosure Home Inspector

Foreclosed Home


Foreclosure home inspectors perform home inspections on homes in default and foreclosure. The need for a home inspector arises when banks, mortgages and lending institutions need to protect the remaining assets remaining on the property, including the structure and outbuildings. Making sure that damages are reported and property conditions are documented periodically will keep documentation records accurate. Becoming a foreclosure home inspector involves becoming certified with the state in which to perform home inspections. Most foreclosure home inspectors are considered independent contractors.


Instructions


1. Check on websites like Home Inspector Exam to find out where to take training to be a home inspector. Attend training or send away for the training that is needed to pass the exam. Sign up for the exam with Pearson VUE. Choose a date and time that are acceptable to take the exam. Receive exam results in two to four weeks. Receive your state license in an additional four to six weeks, if you pass the test.


2. Prepare a resume of all home improvement skills and related expertise. Past home inspection, real estate, construction or insurance adjuster experience is preferred. Keep availability flexible to entice lenders and mortgage companies.


3. Contact area mortgage companies, banks and financial lenders. Find lending institutions in the area by locating them on websites like Mortgage101. Call ahead of time and ask for the contact person who works in the foreclosure department. Bring your resume to institutions that are looking for independent contractors. For some---there may be a waiting list.


4. Await the call for the first inspection. Follow instructions per the lender who contacted you. She may request something as simple as a drive by and a photo or something as extensive as an interior walk through. Be prepared to take photos if necessary. Climbing trees or homes may also be required to report the exterior condition of the home.


5. Greet existing homeowners by informing them who you are and what you need to do. Be prepared to present identification if they ask. Create a simple ID badge or be prepared to show proper identification.


6. Perform the required inspection. For the interior, take pictures of damages if necessary and also take notes of any structural and cosmetic damage both inside and out. Keep track of all activities, arrival and departure time. Make note of this on an individual file that has been created for the property. Communicate with the lender via telephone if necessary.


7. Pencil in additional inspections and try to coordinate per distance between inspections. Report all data to the financial institution.







Tags: home inspector, foreclosure home, four weeks, home inspections, Home Inspector, home inspectors