Technology in Real Estate Inspections

Tech and Gadgets during Home Inspections - Your Take?

Over the last few years, technology seems to be taking over many parts of what we do. Maybe it's been longer, and I'm just catching up.

I'm going to date myself a bit... but I can remember having used actual film for some reference pictures for an inspection. Then later, a few courtesy pics with a Polaroid... Ok, enough of that :D

Over time, I now have an entire arsenal of tools, including carbon monoxide detectors, circuit analyzers, 2 Moisture Meters (must confirm and double confirm), infrared thermometer and I'm sure I've forgotten a few gadgets here and there.

At the end of the day, I've tried to ensure that I provide an excellent service to my customers.

But the last year has given me the:

The "Whopper" of all gagdets... the Thermal/Infrared Camera

Of all gadgets... this device has proven to be the biggest "aha" type of gadgets, and has provided the most "resistance" as well as interest and acceptance than anything else I've used. There seems to be no "middle of the road" with this device. For me... I can't understand how I've gotten by without it for so long, no kidding!

In the right hands, this device can take much of the guess work and worry out of many concerns that today's buyers have... period. 

I will also say this, any moisture concern/finding should be confirmed with a quality moisture meter. No if's or buts. 

How to make it more confusing? The level of education and devices/cameras that are used are constrained by the financial constraints by the inspector. What do I mean? Well, I think the camera I used to take the picture below,  was several times the cost of most of my competitors... does it make me better? No... it was just a choice I made, to again, provide excellent service to my customers. And to provide concise results... I guess my point is, we are willing to invest in ourselves to further the service we provide.

At the end of the day... thermal cameras will be very common, probably less than 5 years from now. What will be next?

Have you, as a RE Professional or Inspector, found that technology has become part of your life for the better or ???? 

In your area... are your still seeing (or using) more conventional tools? If you're an agent.. do you embrace the digital age or do you wish time would turn back a little?

Thanks for reading!