How quickly can I get started working? Many students start their home inspection businesses immediately upon completion of the course. To get started you need only to obtain a county or city business license. The course content explains all of the steps and options for business formation, marketing, and completing a professional inspection report. Back to Top
What about becoming registered? The Housing Inspection Foundation (HIF) fully endorses all of the home inspection courses offered by AREA. Graduates qualify to earn the Registered Home Inspector (RHI) designation by joining HIF since it is recognized that the students have received the proper training to perform home inspections through these courses. Back to Top
Why is your course so much less than others? The home inspection course is complete and thorough - the better question is how can others charge so much? We have a vested interest in keeping you as a student. Unlike other home inspection schools, AREA offers other related real estate education opportunities. We expect to have you for the long run, not just for one class. We are unaware of any home inspection course at any price that offers the content of our course. This course covers construction from footing to the roof, including an onsite visit to view homes under construction. AREA covers what to inspect, how to inspect, and equally important, how to report findings. We cover relevant code sections, provide guidance on business formation, and share marketing strategies. Back to Top
Do you certify students? There is no official certification for home inspectors in Georgia. You will receive certification of course completion. Various professional organizations such as the Housing Inspection Foundation (HIF) and the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) provide registration and certification to its members that have demonstrated certain home inspection abilities. Certifications may be obtained through these, and similar organizations. AREA's affiliation with the HIF provides discounted first year membership and the "Registered Home Inspector" designation after completion of the course for members. HIF also provides the Certified Home Inspector designation with additional course work, field work, or examination. Back to Top
What is CABO certification and does AREA offer it? CABO certification is a designation that recognizes knowledge of the International Residential One and Two Family Construction Code. This was formerly issued by the Southern Building Code Congress International (SBCCI) upon passage of a four-part examination. In 2003 the SBCCI was absorbed into the International Code Council (ICC). The new code designation available is Registered Building Inspector. You do not need to be code certified to be a good home inspector or to enjoy the financial benefits of your own home inspection business. This is however, a sought after credential that home inspectors should work toward obtaining in order to distinguish themselves in this industry. Back to Top
