Morning brew

Week 50 – What I Told a New Franchisee on Their First Day This week, I had a moment I never expected 11 months ago: I sat down with a brand-new franchisee. First day. Nervous energy. That mix of excitement and “What the hell did I just sign up for?” written all over their face. And suddenly, I was the one giving advice. Here’s what I told them: “Follow the plan. It’s not always glamorous, but it works. Talk to more Realtors than you think you need to. Say the same thing 1,000 times. And be nice to everyone—even when you’re tired, or unsure, or feel like you’re not getting anywhere.” Then I said the most important thing: “Call Curt. Call him more than you think you should. You’ll feel like you’re bugging him, but trust me—he wants you to succeed. He’s not just the founder, he’s your coach, your lifeline, your shortcut around 100 dumb mistakes.” And it was surreal. Because I remember being that person. I remember wondering if I’d make it. Wondering if I had what it takes. Wondering if all the systems and tools and branding would really work. And now? I’m living proof that it does. What I wish someone had told me back then: It gets easier. But you have to earn the ease through consistency. Don’t reinvent the wheel. The road is paved—just walk it. Your calendar reflects your future. Fill it with meetings, not just tasks. What I’ll keep doing: Passing it forward. Lifting up the next wave of owners. And remembering what it felt like to be new—so I can make someone else’s journey just a little smoother. → Almost done: Week 51: Preparing to File Taxes as a Business Owner for the First Time ← Want to hear what my family thinks about this journey? Week 49: What My Family Thinks Now (After 11 Months of Hustle) Want to launch a home inspection franchise with a proven roadmap and someone in your corner? Start here—and call Curt.

Week 49 – What My Family Thinks Now (After 11 Months of Hustle) It hit me this week how much has changed—not just for me, but for all of us. We were driving through a neighborhood when my kid pointed out the window and said, “Daddy, you inspected that house, right?” I laughed… then got a little quiet. Because yeah—I had. And the fact that they remembered? That meant something. My wife knows more about this business than I did in month two. She knows agent names. She recognizes the company lingo. She can tell when I’m prepped for a report debrief or when I’ve had a tough inspection day. She doesn’t just ask, “How was work?” anymore—she asks, “Was that a new Realtor or one of your regulars?” It’s wild to think how far we’ve come: This time last year, I was still working my corporate job. Punching a clock. Sitting in meetings. Wondering if I’d ever really get to build something of my own. Now, our family car has inspection gear in the trunk, our dinner table conversations include client stories, and our weekends sometimes include site visits. This isn’t just my journey—it’s become our lifestyle. My kids talk about inspections like it’s a normal part of life. My wife feels like a true partner in the business—not just a cheerleader. And me? I feel like the kind of role model I wanted to become. Why this means more than any revenue number: Building this franchise was about freedom—but also about impact. I didn’t want to just be gone all the time. I wanted to build something my family could see, touch, and be proud of. And now, when they talk about “our business,” I know I’ve done that. What I’ll keep doing: Sharing the wins and lessons. Letting them in. Showing them what commitment looks like. Because they’ve been in this with me since day one—even if they didn’t know the words for it yet. → Almost there: Week 50: What I Told a New Franchisee on Their First Day ← Want to know what my worst mistake was this year? Week 48: The Worst Decision I Made This Year If you want to build a home inspection franchise your whole family can be proud of—it starts with one brave decision.

Week 48 – The Worst Decision I Made This Year This post is a little humbling—but here goes. The worst decision I made all year? A full-page print ad in the local high school football program. Cost me over a thousand bucks. And brought in exactly… zero calls. Why did I do it? Honestly? Ego. I wanted to feel legit. I wanted to see my logo next to the “Go Panthers!” banner and think, “I’ve made it.” I imagined parents flipping through the program and saying, “Hey, we should call this guy.” But they didn’t. Because that’s not how marketing works anymore. Looking back, I can see it clearly: This wasn’t a strategic decision. It was emotional. I wanted to feel like I was “everywhere”—but I wasn’t thinking about where my actual clients were looking. And they weren’t flipping through print ads between halftime nachos. It didn’t just cost money—it cost momentum: Time I could’ve spent meeting agents Money I could’ve put into Google reviews or sponsored posts Headspace I burned on something that didn’t move the needle The turning point? Curt told me early on: “Stick to what works. Don’t fall for the shiny stuff.” I heard him. But I guess I had to learn it the expensive way. What I’ve learned since: Good marketing is repeatable, trackable, and client-focused. It’s not about seeing your face on a page—it’s about building relationships, providing value, and showing up where your ideal customer actually is. I’ve grown since then. And my decisions now come from data, not dopamine. What I’ll do differently moving forward: Run every idea through this filter: Does this serve my strategy, or my ego? If it’s the second one, it’s a no. → Up next: Week 49: What My Family Thinks Now (After 11 Months of Hustle) ← Want to know the best thing I did all year? Read: Week 47: The Best Advice I Got This Year Thinking about where to invest in a home inspection franchise? Skip the print ad. Start with strategy—and humility.

Week 47 – The Best Advice I Got This Year? Read This Book. The most impactful thing I did all year wasn’t an inspection. It was reading a book. A few months back, during one of our franchise calls, Curt said something simple: “If you haven’t read Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink, start there.” So I did. And I haven’t looked at leadership—or my own responsibility—the same way since. The core message? Own everything. No excuses. No passing the buck. That means if something doesn’t go right in the field, I don’t blame the weather, the tools, or the client. If something’s confusing in the process, I didn’t explain it clearly enough. If an agent is frustrated, I missed a chance to align expectations. If the schedule’s off, the CRM was wrong, or a teammate’s slipping—it’s on me to fix it. And it doesn’t stop at business: I started thinking about extreme ownership with my wife. My kids. The people who matter most. How I show up after a long day. How I communicate stress. How I balance ambition with presence. It’s all connected. And it’s all mine to own. Here’s what’s changed since I internalized it: More clarity: I give better directions. Set clearer expectations. Follow up more consistently. Less friction: When problems pop up, I don’t take them personally. I solve them. More trust: My team, my clients, and even my family see that I’m accountable. That builds belief. What Curt said that stuck: “If you take ownership of the mission, you’ll never wait to be rescued. You’ll lead from the front—even on the days you’re tired.” He was right. That book rewired my brain. Now I ask: “What could I have done better?” before I ever say, “That’s not my fault.” What I’ll keep doing: Leading with clarity. Listening without defensiveness. Owning results—good, bad, or messy. Because the moment I stopped blaming and started owning? Everything leveled up. → Next up: Week 48: The Worst Decision I Made This Year ← Need a reminder of how to grow others, not just yourself? Revisit: Week 46: Am I Ready to Add a Second Unit or License a Team Member? If you’re building a home inspection franchise, read the book. Then live the principle. Because nothing changes your business faster than taking full ownership of everything inside it.

Week 46 – Am I Ready to Add a Second Unit or License a Team Member? This week, the conversation shifted—and it wasn’t started by me. One of my inspectors pulled me aside after a job. We’d been working together for a few months, and he said something I didn’t expect: “Hey, I love what we’re building here. But I’ve been thinking… what would it take to lead a team? Or maybe even start my own franchise one day?” Honestly, I was flattered—and a little freaked out. This guy’s solid. He’s great with clients, sharp on the systems, and hungry to grow. But the idea of duplicating myself—of helping someone else step into ownership or leadership—felt like a whole new level. It made me realize that my business isn’t just a vehicle for my own growth. It might be a launchpad for others, too. This is what real scale starts to look like: Training leaders, not just assistants Thinking about territory expansion Exploring the idea of licensing internally And the best part? I’m not making it up from scratch. The Inspections Over Coffee franchise has a model for this. A roadmap for bringing team members into ownership, with guardrails, support, and win-win structure. Here’s what Curt reminded me: “If someone on your team wants to grow, that’s a sign you’re building something worth staying in. But make sure you’ve got the foundation, the systems, and the vision to support that growth. Leadership is about replication, not just delegation.” What I’m doing now: Having real conversations. Looking at the numbers. Thinking about what a second unit—or a licensed internal partner—would look like. And being honest about what I still need to learn to lead at that level. What I’ll keep doing: Investing in my people. Building systems that scale. And remembering: the business isn’t just about me anymore. It’s becoming something bigger. And that’s both thrilling—and a little scary—in the best way. → Next up: Week 47: The Best Advice I Got This Year ← See how I realized I’d built something valuable: Week 45: I’ve Built a Business. Not Just a Job. Want to build a home inspection franchise that creates leaders—not just jobs? This model shows you how.

Week 45 – I’ve Built a Business. Not Just a Job. This week, a casual happy hour turned into a massive mindset shift: I was having drinks with a friend I hadn’t seen in a while. We were catching up—talking life, family, business—and I mentioned I had just crossed six figures in revenue for the year. He paused. Then said, “You know you didn’t just build income, right? You built an asset.” That word hit different. I’ve been so deep in the day-to-day—marketing, inspections, calls, systems—that I hadn’t stopped to zoom out. I hadn’t realized what I was sitting on: a business that generates cash, has real branding, repeat clients, process documentation, and a local reputation. Something that could be valued. Something that could be sold. We started doing the napkin math: $100k+ in booked revenue. A growing Google review base and search ranking. Established systems and CRM data. Franchise-level support and branding. He said, “I bet your business is already worth $200,000—maybe more.” That blew me away. It wasn’t just a hustle anymore. This wasn’t a side gig. This was equity. This was wealth building. And I had built it from zero—with no prior industry experience—just by following the model and refusing to quit. This is what makes the franchise model so powerful: I didn’t have to guess. I didn’t have to make 100 mistakes to learn the ropes. The roadmap was already there. I just had to drive it with intention. The brand, the systems, the marketing—they did the heavy lifting. I just showed up every day and executed. What I’m thinking about now: This isn’t just about getting to $150k or $200k in annual income. This is about building something that has value. A company with processes, a reputation, and transferability. Something I could expand, license, or even exit someday. What I’ll keep doing: Act like the CEO, not just the operator. Think about systems, value creation, and long-term strategy. Because now that I know I’ve built a business—not just a job—I’m playing a much bigger game. → Next up: Week 46: Am I Ready to Add a Second Unit or License a Team Member? ← Want to know what this risk felt like? Week 44: Reflecting on Risk — Why This Still Feels Brave If you’re ready to build a home inspection franchise that actually becomes an asset, not just a paycheck—this is the blueprint.

Week 44 – Reflecting on Risk: Why This Still Feels Brave This week, I took a moment to slow down—and felt the weight of it all. I’ve been running hard. Inspections, Realtor meetings, late-night emails, reports, systems. It’s working. The reviews are rolling in. The schedule’s filling up. The numbers are trending up and to the right. But even with all that… I had a quiet moment this week that brought me back to center. It started with a conversation over dinner: My wife and I were sitting at the kitchen table. She asked how things were going, and for once, I didn’t just rattle off the metrics. I paused. Then said something I hadn’t admitted out loud yet: “This still feels like the bravest thing I’ve ever done.” She smiled. Then said something I’ll never forget: “It should. You walked away from certainty—and built something from scratch. But now look at it. You’re not just working. You’re becoming.” That hit hard. Because she’s right. This isn’t just about inspections. It’s about identity. About choosing to bet on myself, even when it felt terrifying. About showing our kids what it looks like to take a chance, work hard, and keep showing up. Some days I still wonder: Was this the right move? There are no guarantees. No steady paycheck. No “boss” to tell me what to do. But when I look at what I’ve built—the reputation, the referrals, the client relationships, the systems—I see the compound effect of courage. Not perfection. Just consistency and belief, stacked day after day. And this franchise gave me the blueprint: Curt’s mentorship when I felt lost. Templates, tools, and training so I didn’t have to start from zero. A community of people who get it—and want to grow too. What I know now, 44 weeks in: This business wasn’t just a career shift. It was a life decision. One I’d make again—even on the hard days. Because while fear still pops up, it’s no longer the driver. That seat’s taken—by purpose. → Next up: Week 45: I’ve Built a Business. Not Just a Job. ← Catch the week I realized the town already knew my name: Week 43: My Local Reputation is Doing the Talking Now Thinking about making a leap of your own? Learn more about the home inspection franchise that helped me do it with courage—and community.

Week 43 – My Local Reputation is Doing the Talking Now This week, I hit a milestone that stopped me in my tracks: 50 five-star Google reviews. It’s wild to type that out. I remember celebrating my first one like it was a standing ovation. Now, I’ve got a legit online reputation—and people are noticing. Here’s the moment that made it real: I walked into a real estate office for a quick drop-in. I introduced myself to an agent I’d never met, and before I could finish my sentence, she said: “Oh—I’ve heard of you. You’re the guy with the inspection videos, right?” I just stood there for a second. Because that sentence right there? That’s everything we’ve been building. The systems. The branding. The consistency. The reviews. All working quietly in the background to give me momentum I didn’t even realize I had. What the reviews are really doing: They’re shortening the trust timeline: Agents feel like they already know me. They’re opening doors: Brokers are more willing to let me speak at meetings. They’re lowering the marketing pressure: I don’t need to “sell” as hard. My online presence is doing half the work. But this didn’t happen by accident: Every review request is automated. Every report is consistent. Every follow-up includes a thank you. And every client gets the same experience—so they want to leave a review without being asked twice. This is the franchise difference: When Curt built this model, he made it review-friendly on purpose. From the tone we use in the reports to the built-in follow-up emails, it’s all designed to invite feedback—and make sure it’s positive. I just had to follow the system and trust the compound effect. What I’ll keep doing: More face time. More great inspections. More service that’s review-worthy. Because when people hear about you before they meet you? That’s when the real brand momentum starts to roll. → Next up: Week 44: Reflecting on Risk — Why This Still Feels Brave ← Missed how I started tracking the right numbers? Week 42: I Know My Numbers — And I Use Them Weekly Curious how to build a home inspection franchise that gets remembered before you even walk in the room? It starts with consistent service—and a system that supports it.

Week 42 – I Know My Numbers. And They Drive Everything Now. This week confirmed something wild: I don’t just check my metrics—I *crave* them. Back when I first started, the numbers felt like a mystery. Revenue goals, booking volume, lead sources… I was tracking, but mostly reacting. Now? I live by them. They tell the real story. And more than that—they tell me what to do next. My most important number? Realtor meetings per week. If I haven’t sat down with at least a couple of new agents by Thursday, I start to feel… itchy. Like something’s off. I’ll catch myself scanning name tags at the grocery store, watching for real estate logos on laptop stickers at coffee shops, even glancing too long at car magnets in parking lots. It’s not desperation—it’s drive. Because I know what each meeting means. Each new Realtor relationship is a shot at $1,000–$3,000 in annual inspection revenue. And I know, thanks to the system, that 42 agent conversations per month = a full calendar and real momentum. What I track weekly now: Revenue booked – not just done, but what’s ahead Realtor contacts added – real convos, not just business cards Review count – and what words clients are using Follow-up calls made – because one coffee isn’t enough Why this works: This franchise didn’t just give me tools—it gave me the math. I know what matters. I know what moves the needle. I’m not just “staying busy”—I’m staying focused. Every Monday, I pull up my spreadsheet. Every Friday, I check what got done. And every week, I see the proof: systems work when you work the system. How I’m evolving: Honestly, I’ve become a little obsessed—with the right things. Meeting agents. Tracking conversions. Watching which offices start sending more deals. It’s not about being a spreadsheet junkie. It’s about knowing I can control my future if I stay consistent. What I’ll keep doing: Chase the right numbers. Schedule the right meetings. And make sure I never have a week where I didn’t connect with someone new who could send me business for years. → Next up: Week 43: My Local Reputation is Driving Growth Without Ads ← Missed last week’s post on teaching real estate offices? Week 41: I’m Teaching Others Now — That’s Wild Want to run a home inspection franchise that’s data-driven and growth-smart? The numbers don’t lie.

Week 41 – I’m Teaching Others Now… That’s Wild This week, something happened that I didn’t expect at all: I was invited to speak at a local real estate office—a follow-up to a few recent referrals. I figured it’d be a quick Q&A. You know, “What’s an inspection include?” “How fast can you get us a report?” That kind of thing. But twenty minutes later, I was still talking—explaining inspection myths, how we use drones and thermal imaging, what a warranty really covers, how to frame findings to keep deals alive. And no one had tuned out. They were locked in. Then someone asked the question that made my heart skip: “Do you teach CE classes?” I paused. I’ve heard other inspectors do this. But me? I hadn’t considered it. But right then, I realized… why not? I know the material. I live it daily. And judging by their reactions, I’m explaining it in a way that clicks. They weren’t just listening—they were learning. And that felt amazing. Afterwards, I called my wife: I told her, “I think I just taught a class without meaning to.” And I couldn’t stop talking about how comfortable I felt. It wasn’t nerves or imposter syndrome—it was momentum. It was that feeling of, “I’ve actually got something to share now.” This franchise didn’t just give me tools—it gave me a platform: The systems gave me structure—so I’m not winging it anymore. The branding gave me presence—so people take me seriously before I even speak. The experience gave me stories—and that’s what people remember most. Why I’m leaning into this role now: Teaching is leadership. It’s trust. It’s how you become the go-to in a market. And frankly, it’s fun. Standing up and realizing, “Oh wow, I know this stuff—and I enjoy explaining it”—that’s a shift I didn’t see coming, but I’m embracing it now. Next steps: I’m looking into CE accreditation. Planning topics. Outlining slide decks. Because the more value I bring to agents, the more referrals I’ll earn—and the stronger our reputation gets. → Next up: Week 42: I Know My Numbers — And I Use Them Weekly ← Just catching up? Check how I turned clients into recurring referral sources: Week 40: Turning a One-Time Client Into a Lifelong Referral Source Want to build a home inspection franchise where you don’t just learn—you eventually lead? That journey starts here.

Week 40 – Turning a One-Time Client Into a Lifelong Referral Source This week, I realized something that changed how I think about growth: Homebuyers are customers. But real estate agents? They’re clients. The difference is huge. Buyers might use us once every seven years—if that. But agents? They might refer us 5, 10, even 20 times a year. Maybe more. That realization hit especially hard this week when a small connection turned into something big. It started with a round of golf: A few weeks ago, I met a Realtor at a charity golf event. We talked. I explained what we do at Inspections Over Coffee. No pitch—just a real conversation. I gave him a card and left it at that. A week later, he booked us for one of his buyers. A good inspection, clear report, happy client. Then came the unexpected invite: After that job, he emailed me: “Hey, my broker loved the report. Want to come speak at our next office meeting?” Uh, YES. That’s the kind of moment that starts the snowball. One good experience leads to a whole room of opportunities. That agent? He’s not a one-time win. He’s a relationship. Why this franchise model makes relationship building easier: We look the part: Branded polos. Consistent messaging. Clean, easy-to-understand reports. We serve the agents too: We explain things in their language. We protect the deal, not just list problems. We follow up: Automated emails, branded summaries, and that extra touch that shows we care beyond the invoice. The mindset shift that matters most: Every agent is worth more than a commission—they’re a pipeline. And if I treat them with care, education, and consistency? They’ll send more clients. And maybe even invite me into rooms I couldn’t get into on my own. What I’ll keep doing: Show up sharp. Speak clearly. Follow up fast. And always—always—treat agents as long-term relationships, not just conduits to a one-time sale. Because they’re the ones who keep the phone ringing year-round. → Ready for Phase 6? We’re shifting to mastery next: Week 41: I’m Teaching Others Now — That’s Wild ← Missed the ego-check story? Catch it here: Week 39: Confidence vs. Ego Want to build a home inspection franchise where clients turn into lifelong partners? That’s what this system was built for.

Week 39 – Confidence vs. Ego: This Week, I Got a Reality Check This week reminded me: even when you’re good, you’re never done learning. I had a call with Curt that left me thinking for days. Not because he was harsh—but because he was right. I’ve been feeling more confident lately. Reviews are great. Agents trust me. The systems are humming. And somewhere along the way… I started sounding a little too sure of myself. Then I had a run-in with a contractor that put me right back in student mode. Here’s what happened: A client’s contractor called us out—said we “missed a bunch of code issues” in our report. Claimed we should’ve flagged all these items. Started questioning our competence. Honestly? I was steamed. But as Curt reminded me, this wasn’t about defending my pride. It was about helping the client—and staying professional, no matter what. The truth about inspections (and what some people still don’t get): We’re not code inspectors. We’re not contractors. We don’t do invasive or destructive testing. We’re here to provide a system-by-system review based on what’s visible and accessible at the time of inspection. But man, some folks really don’t understand that. And this contractor? He was one of them—until we talked. How Curt helped me get ready: He coached me through how to handle the call calmly, confidently, and if needed—legally. He reminded me that the client comes first, and clarity always beats conflict. When I called the contractor, things were heated at first. But then, I explained what an inspection is and isn’t. I walked him through what was documented, with photo evidence. And eventually… he got it. Here’s the outcome: The contractor apologized—and actually thanked me for the clarification. The client got a follow-up explaining what was (and wasn’t) missed, and left the conversation reassured. Our reputation stayed intact—and I learned how to de-escalate instead of over-defend. What I’m taking with me from now on: Confidence is earned—but it’s fragile when it tips into ego. I know my stuff. I’m trained. I care. But I’m always a student, and I always represent more than just myself. Every inspection is an opportunity to educate—not dominate. And every tense moment is a test of maturity, not just messaging. The mindset I’m keeping: Be the expert. Be the educator. Be open. And when someone pushes back, don’t flinch—just clarify, calmly. Because ego might win the moment, but humility wins the relationship. → Next up: Week 40: Turning a One-Time Client Into a Lifelong Referral Source ← Last week we talked competition—catch it here: Week 38: What My Competitors Are Doing — And Why I’m Not Scared Want to run a home inspection franchise that gives you confidence without ego? It starts with great coaching.

Week 38 – I Finally Looked at My Competitors… and I’m Not Worried At first, I assumed this is just how everyone does it: In the early weeks, I figured all home inspection companies offered thermal imaging, same-day reports, embedded videos, and clear summaries with color-coded issues. I assumed everyone dressed sharp, returned calls quickly, and had tight messaging. I thought I was just “catching up.” But now that I’ve seen behind the curtain? I’ve listened to competitor voicemails. I’ve sat in on presentations. I’ve looked at their reports. I’ve heard how they talk to clients and agents. And the truth? I started light years ahead of where most of them are. Not because I’m a genius—because I joined a franchise that built the runway for me. The difference is obvious now: Our reports vs. theirs: Mine are clean, visual, and intuitive. Theirs are PDF walls of text. No photos, no videos, no summaries. It’s like reading a legal document. My scripting vs. theirs: I’m trained to educate without scaring. They talk like contractors—throwing jargon and panic at buyers. Our client experience: From the first phone call to the post-inspection walk-through, our process feels tight. Theirs? Disjointed at best, dismissive at worst. Marketing: Most inspectors don’t even post regularly—let alone brand consistently. We’ve had daily social posts since week one, all backed by a recognizable brand identity. This franchise didn’t just help me launch—it helped me leapfrog: I started my first week with materials that looked like I’d been doing this for 10+ years. And honestly, that matters. It builds trust instantly. I’ve had Realtors say, “You’re way more polished than other inspectors I’ve worked with—and I’ve been in this business 20 years.” It’s not ego. It’s infrastructure: Confidence doesn’t come from thinking you’re better. It comes from knowing you’re supported. Knowing your system works. Knowing your clients and agents are being served at a level they didn’t even realize they could expect. What I’ll keep doing: Ignore the noise. Focus on service. Double down on our standards. Because if this is the gap between me and the “average” inspector? Then I’m going to widen it with every job, every post, every client call. → Next up: Week 39: Mindset Week — Confidence vs. Ego ← Missed how I tried (and failed) to relax on vacation? Catch it here: Week 37: I Took a Vacation — But Couldn’t Relax Want to start ahead of the pack? Learn more about joining a home inspection franchise that gives you a pro-level launchpad from day one.

Week 37 – I Took a Vacation… But Couldn’t Fully Relax This week, I tested something bigger than systems—I tested trust. I planned my first actual vacation since launching the business. Nothing crazy—just a few days away, somewhere with sunshine, no inspections, and the dream of mental space. But when the time came to shut the laptop and hand off the keys (figuratively), I felt something unexpected: anxiety. Who’s answering the phones? Who’s managing scheduling? Will the client experience match our standard? I had systems. I had a plan. But I didn’t have total peace of mind. I set up a daily recap system with my team. We agreed on a 5-minute check-in window via text or voice memo. I laid out scripts, reminders, even a “what to say when someone asks for me specifically” cheat sheet. Everything was mapped out. But I still found myself checking my phone a dozen times a day. Why? Because I care. A lot. This business isn’t just a job. It’s my name, my reputation, my livelihood. And even though I trust my people—and I do—it’s tough to truly unplug when you’ve spent nearly a year building something with your own hands. Every call that comes in still feels personal. What went well: Clients were served: No missed calls. No complaints. Everyone got what they needed. The team stepped up: They followed the process. They checked in on time. They made decisions I would’ve made myself. I didn’t feel guilty for leaving: I felt… proud. Nervous, yes—but proud. What I’ll do better next time: Prep earlier. Rehearse handoffs. Automate even more. And most of all, remind myself that if I want to scale, I have to train my business to survive without me. Because that’s the real freedom. Not just taking time off—but knowing things still run when I do. The franchise playbook helped calm my nerves: When I mentioned my vacation to Curt, he didn’t flinch. He reminded me: “The systems are already built to support you stepping away. You just have to trust them—and coach your people to use them.” That reminder helped me hand over the reins without hovering. Next step: Book another one. Seriously. If I don’t build rest into the plan, burnout will make the decision for me. So next time? I’ll trust even more. Delegate even smarter. And maybe… leave the phone in the hotel room for an afternoon. → Next up: Week 38: What My Competitors Are Doing — And Why I’m Not Scared ← Missed last week’s post about throwing your own events? Read: Week 36: Networking Events: Goldmine or Time Waste? Want to build a home inspection franchise that doesn’t fall apart when you take a break? Start with the right systems.

Week 36 – Networking Events: Goldmine or Time Waste? This week I stopped waiting for the perfect networking event—and started creating my own: When I first launched, I went to every local event I could find. Chamber mixers. Community breakfasts. Multi-industry networking nights where I was shaking hands with insurance salespeople, gym owners, and tax guys. And while some of it was fun… I wasn’t there to meet dentists. I was there to meet Realtors. So I flipped the script: If the right event doesn’t exist, build it. Now, I host my own happy hours. Just for Realtors. No pitches, no pressure—just a low-key invite that says: “Come have a drink, meet some other agents, and unwind.” The turnout? Way better than the cattle-call mixers. The vibe? Way more focused. When the weather turns bad, I level up the experience: Cold outside? Rainy season? I rent out a small movie theater. No, seriously. A few short slides up front. Five minutes of updates about Inspections Over Coffee—what’s new, what we offer, how to get clients booked fast. Then? We watch a first-run film. Popcorn’s on me. Realtors love this. It’s memorable. It’s different. And best of all—it’s targeted. I’m not “networking” in the abstract. I’m creating real connection with the people who actually fuel my business. Why this works better than traditional networking: Focused audience: I’m not hoping to “bump into” an agent—I’m inviting 10–30 of them directly. Brand alignment: This is what Inspections Over Coffee is all about—professional, friendly, and a little fun. Value-first vibe: I don’t just show up to take—I show up to give. A good night out. A sense of community. And maybe a few insights too. Franchise support made it easier than it sounds: I didn’t have to build the deck. I didn’t have to guess what to say. The franchise gave me the templates, the messaging, and the tone that fits our brand. So when I stand up for those five minutes before the movie starts? I sound polished, not salesy. What I’ll keep doing: Host events where the right people show up. Make it about them. Keep it light, useful, and real. Because nothing beats a face-to-face moment with someone who might book five deals this month—and choose me for all of them. → Next up: Week 37: I Took a Vacation — But Couldn’t Relax ← Thinking bigger about territory and trucks? Revisit: Week 35: Second Truck? New Territory? Time to Think Big Curious how we build connections that convert? Take a look at the home inspection franchise behind the scenes.

Week 35 – Second Truck? New Territory? Time to Think Big This week I started looking at the map a little differently: I’ve been operating out of my city for about 8 months now. I’ve built relationships. I’ve got a rhythm. And thanks to the franchise SEO and our Google Business Profile strategy, I’m now ranking locally for a ton of valuable keywords. But something clicked this week—I realized I don’t have to wait to start next door. The neighboring city has just as much market potential, and now that I know how this system works? I’m not guessing. I’ve seen firsthand how quickly we can show up on search with the right setup. That means it’s time to start thinking like a regional business, not just a local one. Here’s what I’m doing to prep for expansion: Securing a physical address: I need a verified location in the next city to activate local SEO. Could be a small office, a co-working space, even a virtual mailbox—whatever fits Google’s verification rules and gives me a legit NAP (name/address/phone) listing. Prepping a new Google Business Profile: The franchise team has already coached me on how to set this up without stepping on the toes of my first listing. New city, new GBP, optimized categories, services, and posts. Scoping the competition: I’m quietly watching which inspection companies rank over there, what they’re doing, what they’re not doing, and where the opportunity sits. What would a second truck actually mean? More inspections. More relationships. Maybe a second inspector. Definitely a higher level of systems thinking. But I’m not afraid of that anymore—because now I know how to onboard, train, and replicate the experience. The framework’s already built. It’s just a matter of plugging in the right people. Why I’m not rushing—but I’m not hesitating either: Growth without structure can break you. But waiting too long? That can shrink you. I want to stay in the sweet spot: thoughtful growth, well-supported, with the right mix of risk and readiness. And that’s what this franchise model gives me—a growth strategy I can repeat, not just wish for. Next steps: Lock down the address. Launch the listing. Build the content. Start popping up in searches. And meanwhile, lay the groundwork for a second truck with the same service standards that got me here in the first place. What I’ll never forget: Territory isn’t just about zip codes—it’s about visibility. If people in the next town can’t see us, they can’t book us. So I’m expanding strategically, digitally, and with the same consistency that got me traction in the first place. → Next up: Week 36: Networking Events: Goldmine or Time Waste? ← Catch what I’d absolutely redo if I started again: Week 34: What I Would Do Differently If I Could Restart Today Thinking about launching a home inspection franchise with room to grow? Start with the right map.

Week 34 – If I Could Go Back to Day One… This week, I found myself thinking: “What would I do differently if I could restart today?” I’m 34 weeks in. That’s over 200 days of learning, trying, testing, and occasionally facepalming. And honestly? There are two things I would absolutely change if I had the chance to start again. One is a timing thing. The other? A humility thing. First: I would’ve started earlier I know it sounds obvious now—but this is the business I should’ve started years ago. The support, the tools, the clarity… it’s miles beyond the chaos of freelancing or corporate jobs. Every week, I meet another agent or client who tells me, “We need more people like you doing this.” If I’d started just 12 months sooner, I’d already be scaling faster. Lesson learned. Second: I wouldn’t have chased my own “great ideas” When I first launched, I thought I needed to be clever. Stand out. Try everything. So I signed up for a local BNI networking group (expensive, early, exhausting) and bought an ad in a glossy local print magazine (expensive, ignored, totally silent). Guess how many inspections came from those two plays? *Zero.* Curt warned me. He didn’t tell me *not* to try them—he just gently suggested that time and money would be better spent meeting Realtors face-to-face. Coffee meetings. Office drop-ins. Relationship building. And he was absolutely right. Why the franchise system matters: The Inspections Over Coffee playbook isn’t just a suggestion—it’s the map. And every time I’ve strayed from it thinking I could outsmart the process, I’ve lost time and cash. But when I follow it? Referrals. Reviews. Revenue. My new rule: don’t “get creative” until the proven stuff is maxed out I can experiment later—once I’ve done 100 Realtor meetings in 60 days. Once the local real estate offices know my name. Once my reviews are so consistent that clients ask for me by name. Until then? I’m sticking to the franchise framework like gospel. What I’ll repeat (and never skip again): Face-to-face connection. Agent education. Solution-based messaging. Every time I do that, the brand grows. The business grows. And I sleep better at night. → Next up: Week 35: Second Truck? New Territory? Time to Think Big ← Catch the moves I made to boost visibility: Week 33: I Invested in My Brand — Here’s What I Did Thinking about starting your own home inspection franchise? Do yourself a favor—just follow the system.

Week 33 – I Invested in My Brand. Here’s What I Did (and Why It Matters) This week was all about long-game thinking: I had another great call with Curt this week, and one of the things we dug into was brand. Not just logos and fonts—but *presence*. What people think and feel when they hear “Inspections Over Coffee.” What they say about us when we’re not in the room. And the truth is, brand isn’t built in a sprint. It’s a slow, strategic stacking of visibility, familiarity, and trust. So this month, I decided to lean in and start playing smarter, not just louder. Here’s what I’ve invested in so far: Chamber of Commerce Membership: This one surprised me. Yes, it helps with local networking, but it also gave me a legit backlink to my website—which helps SEO. Bonus: I got invited to speak at a small business meetup the same week I joined. Youth Sports Sponsorship: I sponsored a local kids’ team, mostly for community goodwill. But that banner on the field? It’s a talking point. A backlink. A trust marker. People notice—even if they don’t say anything. Daily Social Media Content (from the Franchise): This one is the sleeper hit. I’m not going viral, and most posts don’t get dozens of likes—but I know people are seeing them. Friends mention posts to me in person. Realtors forward them. The consistency makes us look like we’re everywhere—and professional while doing it. Other brand builders I’m testing or planning next: Local podcast guest spots: Just got invited to talk about “How to not get blindsided when buying a home.” That’s credibility I can’t buy. Leave-behind folders and one-sheets: Instead of cheap flyers, we’re giving out professionally branded folders with inspection info, value adds, and a soft touch of personality. Uniform consistency: Branded black polo every. single. time. On-site, at events, even at the gas station. Because brand = repetition. What Curt said that reframed this whole thing for me: “If you disappear for a week, would they notice?” That one stuck with me. Because brand isn’t just how loud you are—it’s how missed you are when you’re not around. That’s why we invest, even when the payoff isn’t immediate. Because brand is insurance for attention. For reputation. For referrals. The ROI isn’t always obvious—but it’s real: I’ve had Realtors forward my posts. Clients say, “Oh, I’ve seen your logo before.” Agents say, “You’re that inspection company that actually explains stuff.” That’s what I want. Recognition. Respect. Reach. And that only happens when the brand shows up—even when I’m not in the room. What I’ll keep doing: Backlink smart. Sponsor locally. Show up visually. And let the franchise keep feeding that social media machine—because even when the likes are silent, the brand is speaking loud and clear. → Next up: Week 34: What I Would Do Differently If I Could Restart Today ← Catch how I redefined what performance really means: Week 32: How I Measure My Own Performance Now Learn more about launching your own home inspection franchise.

Week 31 – Understanding the Buyer Brain: What I’ve Learned So Far This week reminded me that I’m not just inspecting houses—I’m guiding people through big emotions: Technically, I’m a home inspector. But lately, it feels like I’m also part therapist, part translator, and part myth-buster. Because buyers? They don’t always know what an inspection is *actually* for. And if I don’t understand their headspace, I risk saying all the right things—and still losing their trust. The three buyer mindsets I see most often: “The Sky Is Falling” Buyers: They’re already panicked. Every finding is a red flag. A GFCI outlet? “Is this house even safe?” A note about grading? “Are we sliding into a sinkhole?” For them, reassurance and clarity matter more than detail. I slow down, explain context, and remind them: “This is normal. Here’s how it’s fixed. It’s manageable.” “Pass/Fail” Buyers: These folks think an inspection is like an exam. “Did the house pass?” is their go-to question—and one I gently steer away from. Because there’s no pass/fail. Every house has issues. The goal isn’t to declare a winner—it’s to understand what you’re buying. I explain the difference between defects, maintenance, and upgrades, and help them make decisions based on *fit*, not fear. “Fixer-Upper Dreamers vs. Turnkey Seekers”: Some buyers want a project. Others want a Pinterest-perfect home. Neither is wrong—but I tailor how I communicate based on what they actually want. One man’s “needs paint” is another man’s “run away.” My job? Stay neutral, but observant. I give them what they need to decide for themselves, not what I think they should do. Why “Would you buy this house?” is the wrong question: I get asked this every week. But here’s the truth: what I’d buy isn’t the point. I’ve learned to redirect that question into: “Based on what we found, how does this home line up with *your* goals?” Some buyers want low maintenance. Some want character. Some want price flexibility. So what matters isn’t the house—it’s what the house *means* to them. The soft skills that matter as much as the technical ones: I’ve gotten good at systems, tools, and reporting. But the real shift happened when I started reading body language. Asking gentle questions. Watching for fear or overwhelm. Pausing to ask, “Do you want me to keep going, or stop here for a second?” That’s the stuff that turns clients into raving fans—not just the drone footage or thermal scans. How the franchise helped me talk like a human, not a technician: From day one, Curt emphasized: “This business is about people, not just problems.” The Inspections Over Coffee model gives me the tech and structure—but it also gives me permission to slow down and connect. And honestly, that’s where most of the magic happens. What I’ll never stop doing: Treating each inspection like the biggest decision of someone’s life—because for them, it probably is. I’ll keep learning how people tick, how to explain findings without alarm, and how to walk through even tough reports with empathy and confidence. → Next up: Week 32: How I Measure My Own Performance Now ← Catch how systems broke under pressure: Week 30: Systems Breaking, Calls Missed, Growth Pain Curious what it’s like to build your own home inspection franchise from the ground up?

Week 32 – What Success Looks Like (To Me, Now) This week I started measuring things a little differently: When I launched this business, I was obsessed with one number: revenue. And don’t get me wrong—it still matters. It tells me if the lights stay on, if growth is happening, if I’m paying myself. But lately? I’ve realized there’s a different scoreboard. A more personal one. The moment that made me pause and smile: I was at a charity golf event—just chatting, not even pitching. I met a Realtor I’d never spoken to before. As I explained what we offer (drone shots, thermal imaging, warranties, the works), he lit up and said, “Why doesn’t every inspection company do this?” That moment? That felt like a win that doesn’t show up in QuickBooks. Here’s what I’m using to track my own growth now: Speaking engagements: Every time I’m invited to present at a real estate office, I know we’re making an impression. Reviews: Not just the 5 stars—but the *words* people use. “Professional,” “calming,” “thorough,” “clear.” That tells me our message is landing the right way. Realtor recall: When agents I’ve never met already know about Inspections Over Coffee? That’s brand presence you can’t fake. My tone: I’ve shifted from being a “problem finder” to being a “solution adviser.” That shows up in how I write reports, how I speak on-site, and how I feel walking away from a job. It’s not just what we do—it’s how we frame it: I’ve stopped approaching inspections like I’m hunting for disaster. That mindset makes clients anxious and agents skeptical. Now I describe findings with calm clarity, offer solutions, and emphasize what’s working—not just what needs fixing. That builds confidence, not chaos. How the franchise helped shift this mindset: The Inspections Over Coffee system is built to position us as partners—not alarmists. Curt’s always said: “Give people the information, but also the why and the next step.” That tone of voice, that solution-first framing—it’s baked into our training, our templates, and our reputation. And it works. What I’ll keep tracking from here on out: Revenue, yes. Always. But also: respect. Recognition. Reviews. Referrals. And how often I get to say, “Yes, I’d be happy to speak to your office.” Because those wins? That’s when I know this business isn’t just growing—it’s becoming known for something I’m proud of. → Next up: Week 33: I Invested in My Brand — Here’s What I Did ← Catch how I learned to speak to different buyer personalities: Week 31: The Psychology of Homebuyers: What I’ve Learned Curious what it’s like to build your own home inspection franchise from the ground up?