Testimonials

My Wise Old Grandmother’s collection of testimonials about her adopted son

1. Just wanted to thank you for all your help. I used your Kittycat marketing strategy a couple of days ago and already booked an inspection from it. It cost $5. LOL! I put a little spin on it though. The web address I put on it didn't reveal that I was a home inspector and when typed in it brings up my $25 coupon pdf with my main website slapped on huge at the bottom! Thanks again for all the ideas. Keep em' comin'. Also, I picked up Guerilla Marketing for the home based business. Awesome! I've been eyeing the 100 free marketing tips too! Thanks for that recommendation.
   Kevin Pierce; Cascade Home Inspections; Orting, Washington
    
2. Thank you for the inspiration to think outside the box. I just used video at an inspection. The seller stated that the roof for the garage had been repaired. Had paperwork from a contractor. It just so happened that it was pouring at the time of inspection, and when I walked into the garage, I saw a waterfall coming down the wall. I switched my camera over to video quick and took a one-minute clip. So I captured this waterfall on video, in motion for all to see. It was awesome to be able to present this to everyone to see that this had not been corrected. Both parties were extremely surprised by my find and thankful for the video. I think the seller got hoodwinked by the contractor. I don't think they were trying to be dishonest but video helped validate their claim. So I just wanted to thank you for opening my eyes to another avenue. I had thought about this previously, but thought it a waste of time. But this last inspection just changed my train of thought on this. Thanks again for pushing this concept, and thanks for all the wisdom you share with the rest of us.
   Ian Niquette; Square One Home Inspection; Markesan, Wisconsin
    
3. Thank you RR. I would call you, and your posts, a bonus for being an iNACHI member.
   Rick Fifield; Fifield Design Construction, Inc.; Cross Junction, Virginia
    
4. My cost of doing business is down greatly since I have started and my profits are climbing. You have been a big part of that. Thanks for all your help.
   Frank Magdefrau; DeSoto Home Inspection Services; Hernando, Mississippi
    
5. I have read your "Power of P" document. This is awesome information, Russel. You have my sincere thanks for imparting your knowledge and wisdom on to me. You are unselfish and generous with your wisdom and have helped so many who want to learn and grow. Business would be harder without you. I really mean that!
   Darren St. Jacques; Nook 'n' Cranny Home Inspections; Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
    
6. A mortgage broker didn't want to pay my fee of $1,500.00 to inspect a five-unit apartment building. I politely declined to lower my price and hung up. Then I remembered what I learned from Russel Ray at a chapter meeting in California a few weeks ago, which induced me to call the guy back and see if I could keep him happy without demeaning my integrity. So I called him back and offered to do a "walkthrough" but made it very clear that I would not be providing a report, only dispensing words of wisdom while we walked for the tune of $300.00. He was overjoyed. So instead of losing business at $1,500, I made $300. Interestingly, my hourly rate of pay went from about $100 for the $1,500 inspection to about $300 for the $300 inspection. Diversification and providing clients with choices is what it's all about.
   Keith Swift; InterNACHI Editor-in-Chief; President, CalNACHI; Northridge, California
    
7. Using Russel's methods, I turned a $295 "Tools & Talk" inspection into $1,129 the other day. Sweet.
   Russell Spriggs; A.C.E. Home Inspections; Spirit Lake, Idaho
    
8. Thanks Russell. I really appreciate your help and information.
   Dennis Goudreau; D.R.G. Inspections; Nashua, New Hampshire
    
9. A while ago I read your post concerning offering multiple options as not all clients have the same needs. As with many other HI's I did not like this idea of offering something that was below the cost of what I wanted to make per home. This logic is flawed obviously considering one could make something, or nothing! So this week I sat down and came up with a Basic and Premium inspection. Both inspections follow the NACHI SOP with the basic taking almost half the time. So performing the Basic inspection for 50 bucks less is still a good payday for me. As a result of adding options I have actually booked an inspection for the Basic, a job I probably would have lost if I offered only one option. I'm glad you posted that information! I know I have said it before but I appreciate all the information you share with us. I'm encouraged beyond belief.
   Vince Santos; StepByStep Home Services; Canton, Michigan
    
10. Even though I do not post that often on the message board, I am always visiting the message board and am always, always impressed with your knowledge and ability to communicate your experiences in this industry. Thank you for all your insights. I was in Toronto; however, I never did have an opportunity to meet you. Someday I would like very much to do just that.
    David Moran; Luxor Development Company and DJM Home Inspections; Clarkston, Michigan
     
11. Fantastic information Russel. I just now ran into this thread and find your articles very interesting. I'm personally going to put some of these articles to use. Thank you very much. Keep up the good work and I'm sure you've helped many members here at NACHI. I can't recall anyone here that has put out a quarter of the information that you have placed on this MB. If you had your reputation system "ON" you'd be getting a massive amount of greenies from me and others.
    David Valley; Massachusetts Home Inspections; Methuen, Massachusetts
     
12. Thank you so much. I have read a lot about your walk inspections on the NACHI BB. I plan on contacting the investment groups you sent to me. Some are at least a few hours away but what the heck I could make a long weekend out of it and make money to boot. Thanks again. You are a great asset to NACHI and its members.
    Daniel Giblin; Astute Home Inspections; Hanahan, South Carolina
     
13. I greatly appreciate everything you have done for us NACHI members. You are one hell of a great asset to this organization. Thank You!
    Mark Sylvester; P.I. Home Inspection Services; Chicago, Illinois
     
14. I cannot believe how well your customer service follow-up system has worked for us. I sent out ten follow-ups, with three responses. One for an inspection on an area that they had fixed, another requesting additional help at the final walkthrough, and another I can add to our testimonials. I had always asked for feedback in my inspection letter, but never received it. Now I know how to get that all-important feedback. Thank you so much for your help and ideas. You are a total asset to InterNACHI!
    Nathan and Gloria; Superior Services Home and Environmental Inspections; DeMotte, Indiana
     
15. Thanks for following up with me. I do appreciate that.
    Wil Duell (name is spelled correctly); Realtor; San Diego, California
     
16. I do not have any questions right now but thank you for asking. If I need anything else, I will certainly be in touch. I appreciate your excellent service.
    Brigitte; Client, San Diego, California
     
17. We are o.k. on questions, but thank you for asking. You have been really great and I will consider for future inspections. Thank you.
    Abby Ortega; Realtor; San Diego, California
     
18. First of all, I would like to thank you so much for the work on the home inspection. This has been an experience that has turned out to be so much better and positive than we ever could have imagined. All your hard work in the report we received was awesome. Chris and I are excited about the house and are so glad that the work needed is not as bad as we thought it was going to be. You will always be at the top of our list when we have questions for sure. We truly learned a lot from you. Thank you so much.
    David & Chris; Clients; San Diego, California
     
19. Thank you very much for your email. Your information is truly priceless for me. Your client follow-up tools are very helpful; I plan on utilizing each of them as I move forward.
    Mark Bonvissuto; A-Mark Home Inspections; North Tonawanda, New York
     
20. Russel has so much quality marketing info.
    Richard Washington; RW Home Inspections; Katy, Texas
     
21. The highlight of my NACHI membership has been the advice and info offered by Russel. I have implemented and tinkered with dozens of his ideas and suggestions, and if I ever get time or get fully organized (can't quite ever seem to get the time to fully catch up), I have dozens of others that I would love to try or toy with. More than anything else in the industry, from newbie to 4-year veteran with a successful business, Russel's marketing wisdom and other advice has been the major element I credit with my success. I have drive and creativity, and a pretty good background for this, but Russel put me on the fast track to success and helped me get the most out of my abilities. If he had his own association, I would join it (and have - check out his Marketing forum).
    Joseph Michalski; Sherlock Homes Inspection Services; Souderton, Pennsylvania
     
22. I enjoy reading your posts over at InterNACHI and Marketing. Many of your ideas have directly benefited me and my business, and I appreciate it.
    Tom Jansson; Acuity Home Inspection Service; Chicago, Illinois
     
23. I had the privilege of hearing you speak at the Ventura meeting. Your information was very inspiring. My wife came with me that night and got a good glimpse of how much better I could be doing if I hustled like you. Thanks again for your useful information at the meeting.
    Steven Zaitz; For Safety Sake; Los Angeles, California
     
24. Let me first of all say how amazing and helpful you have been to me and other home inspectors. Thank you, sincerely, for all you have and continue to do so unselfishly. I am using a referral rewards program. I visit open houses with a bottle of cold water and about seven brochures, three of which include a $25 off an inspection coupon for the agents client and some business cards. I also give them an envelope which has a letter about me and a fee list. I am also joined up on your marketing site. Many thanks.
    Darren St. Jacques; Nook 'n' Cranny Home Inspections; Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
     
25. I generally receive one inspection per week directly related to Russel's Referral Rewards Program that he was so gracious to let me steal.
    Dale Duffy; Inspect Arizona Companies; Scottsdale, Arizona
     
26. Russel is a big part of why I am still staying in business!
    William Corbett; Magic City Home Inspections; Remlap, Alabama
     
27. Even though we've never met, you are becoming quite a marketing mentor. I appreciate it very much!
    Mark Nahrgang; Kingdom Inspections Network Group; Michigan/Missouri/Ohio/Virginia
     
28. I've given some Referral Rewards Program coupons out and have seen results. Thanks to you, Russel.
    Robert Newland; Newland Certified Home Inspections; Tyrone, Georgia
     
29. I've just recently started using a Referral Reward Program and already have seen results. Just yesterday I received a call about doing an inspection for a first time buyer, he was referred by friends (I completed his friends inspection about 4 weeks ago). I'm excited about all the possibilities with this program, as someone else has said, "the referral of your friends and family is the greatest compliment you can give us!" Appreciate your sharing this with me and others.
    Mike Chris; HouseNspect; Santa Clara, Utah
     
30. I started my Referral Rewards program about a year ago. One client has referred me five times and I look for her to continue the referrals. I look forward to continued success with the program and with it's expansion.
    Dennis McAuley; Priority One Home Inspections, Woodstock, Illinois
     
31. Your Realtor marketing tools are very helpful. You have great ideas and I am definitely going to use them for my business.
    Mark Bonvissuto; A-Mark Home Inspections; North Tonawanda, New York
     
32. I loved your report, it was very detailed and took everything into account. I will definitely contact you the next time I need the services of a skilled home inspector. Also, my client commented to me about how professional you were while the inspection was going on and how much she appreciated you looking out for her best interests. I think you did a fine job too!
    Wil Duell (name is spelled correctly); Realtor; San Diego, California
     
33. Russel is very thorough, good job. I feel sorry for him. I know your Realtor will give him the axe after this use.
    Client's dad in email to Client and copied to me
     
34. Thanks again for the detailed report. It is greatly appreciated.
    Chip and Christine; Clients; San Diego, California
     
35. Thanks for the amazingly comprehensive report. We have the chimney man here right now as I write. Pool man came yesterday. Dryer lint is being cared for right now. Termite man was here as well. Many thanks!
    John and Mary Ellen; Clients; San Diego, California
     
36. Hi Russel. Thank you for a great home inspection.
    Nick; Client; San Diego, California
     
37. Thank you very much! You did an awesome job. I was VERY impressed with your knowledge and expertise! Thanks again.
    David M.; Client; San Diego, California
     
38. Hi Russel. Thanks for your follow-up. Lana was very impressed and very happy, and that makes me happy. Thank you very much.
    Joe R.; Realtor; San Diego, California
     
39. You Rock! Your advice and ideas are always outstanding. Thanks for being a great resource.
    Justin Watts; American Dream Home Inspection, Rancho Santa Margarita, California
     
40. I can highly recommend Russel. Russel has been a great asset to NACHI in more ways then I can express. He provides the best quality service that he can give to his clients at all levels.
    Mark Roe; BeSure Home Inspection Service; Lancaster, Ohio
     
41. Dear Russel. Thanks for your message... I will save it and refer people as needed. It seems service takes a back seat today... Your ability and willingness to be available is wonderful! I am sure we will be speaking soon.
    Rebecca Eastom; Realtor; Orange County, California
     
42. I initially began using the Referral Rewards program after reading some of your excellent ideas for marketing. I owe this all to you. Thank you.
    Keith Braun; Signature Property Inspection; Buffalo, New York
     
43. Let me first say thank you for all your GREAT marketing ideas, files, thoughts, etc. I recently started using your post card databases and they are great!
    Michael Wright; HomeSmart Inspections; Marysville, Ohio
     
44. I followed both of Russel's tips on the power of nines and referral reward marketing, and both are great. I use the power of nines at my other job. The first thing I did was move the menu to '9' on everything; 3% gain in sales overall going from '0' to '9'. The referral program works and most of my clients want the discount given to the referred client meaning that I do not have any follow-up. I was able to do an inspection for a client who is responsible for moving into my area 5,000 civilian DOD families. We were able to work out a flat rate plan regardless of house size that should pay wonderfully in the coming year. He applied his referral to each client coming in so that they would get a better rate. While each one will be cheaper than 'normal' I can charge more to the other calls since I have a steady stream of business. If a client will pay more then I will go. We just have to be consistent with pricing and it will gradually go up. Thanks RR for the idea.
    Tim Mattingly; Know Before You Buy; Louisville, Kentucky
     
45. Russel is one of the most remarkable people when it comes to helping others with their businesses. He is always available to answer questions or make suggestions on how to expand their marketing prowess. I would highly recommend "RR" for your marketing or home inspection needs.
    Stephen Stanczyk; Safe Haven Home Inspections; Kapowsin, Washington
     
46. Russel's unique ideas have sparked new ways for me to look at myself and my business as well as helped me think outside the box for marketing my company. He is a true pioneer.
    Mark Reusch; A Major H.I.; Simpsonville, South Carolina
     
47. Russel, please try not to kill this deal. I stopped using you a while back because you were too good. Take it as a mixed compliment. You indirectly killed two of my deals. Not your fault, you’re very good at what you do, but I’m in the business of closing real estate deals. I’m going to try your service again. I chose you for this job and I’ve chosen you in the past because you’re the best home inspector I’ve ever worked with. I’ll see you on Wednesday. All the best
    Name withheld; Realtor; San Diego, California
     
48. Just wanted to update you. My clients have closed and are happily moved in. They were very complimentary of you to the very end. Excellent job. Thanks
    Brian Crisp; Realtor; San Diego, California