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The Unexpected Challenges of a Home Inspector: A Wrong Turn on Google Maps

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Home Inspector with Brian Persons Front Range Home Inspections 000083

In my line of work as a home inspector, precision and attention to detail are essential—but not just when evaluating a property. Sometimes, even finding the correct property can be a challenge, especially in new construction areas where Google Maps hasn't quite caught up. I often find myself submitting corrections to online maps, which has become almost a part-time job in itself (and one I don’t get paid for, of course).

There have been a few memorable occasions when everything aligned in just the wrong way—pocket listings, pre-listings, or one-year warranty inspections where a lockbox or "For Sale" sign wasn’t present. In these situations, I’ve started inspecting a property, diligently working through the exterior, only to realize later that I was at the wrong address! It’s a rare but humbling reminder of how crucial it is to double-check every detail before getting started.

These moments highlight the unique and sometimes unpredictable nature of this profession. While frustrating at times, they also reinforce the importance of adaptability and a good sense of humor. If nothing else, it makes for a great story to share with clients and colleagues alike!

#InspectorBrian #HomeBuying #HomeInspector #RealEstate #HomeBuyers #NoCoRealEstate

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Michael Jacobs
Pasadena, CA
Pasadena And Southern California 818.516.4393

Hello Brian - mistakes, costly and sometimes embarrassing, can hopefully turn into lessons.  Such learning experiences may even be more memorable because of the stories they inspire.  

Dec 07, 2024 09:54 AM
Kathy Streib
Cypress, TX
Retired Home Stager/Redesign

Hi Brian- as much as I love and use Google maps, it has been known to make mistakes. Wouldn't it have been funny if the homeowner of the wrong address came out to see what you were doing. 

Dec 07, 2024 11:55 AM
Brian Persons

They did a few days ago and threatened violence, not that funny. I calmed them down and did this favor for them (correcting the google data).

Dec 07, 2024 03:51 PM
Don Baker
Lane Realty - Eatonton, GA
Lake Sinclair Specialist

We're all human.  I once tried to show the wrong house (north vs south) and it happened to also be listed.  

Dec 07, 2024 01:36 PM
Joan Cox, Retired Broker/Owner
Denver, CO
Enjoying Every Day to Its Fullest!

Brian, GPS can be annoying, and especially with new construction.  I usually look at MLS maps and write it down, just in case.

Dec 07, 2024 02:07 PM
GilbertRealtor BillSalvatore
Arizona Elite Properties - Chandler, AZ
Realtor - 602-999-0952 / em: golfArizona@cox.net

Thanks for sharing, make it a great Saturday and enjoy your weekend! Bill

Bill Salvatore, Realtor- Arizona Elite Properties

Dec 07, 2024 02:13 PM
Kathy Streib
Cypress, TX
Retired Home Stager/Redesign

Dec 07, 2024 06:04 PM
Michael Jacobs
Pasadena, CA
Pasadena And Southern California 818.516.4393

Hello Brian - with the highlight of your post in Kathy Streib's weekly AhHa post, I returned to see your response to the question in her comment.  Everyday life and consequences of many kinds are definitely combined. 

Dec 08, 2024 06:19 AM
Dorie Dillard Austin TX
Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899 - Austin, TX
NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones

Good morning Brian,

I found your post because Kathy Streib featured it in her Sunday series! Your job entails being observant on so many fronts! LOL! I think we all find issues with Goggle maps...correcting helps keep in more up to date. I can see where it could happen to start inspecting the wrong house on the exterior...funny but you are right humiliating! 

Dec 08, 2024 06:24 AM
Kat Palmiotti
eXp Commercial, Referral Divison - Kalispell, MT
Helping your Montana dreams take root

Good morning! Real estate professionals sometimes have the same issue! We also have some roads here in the mountains which split into forks multiple times and all the roads have same name. It's so dumb and definitely makes finding things very difficult!

Dec 08, 2024 06:27 AM
Richard Weeks
Dallas, TX
REALTOR®, Broker
Great information, thanks for sharing.  I hope you have a great day.
Dec 08, 2024 08:42 AM