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The "New Home" surprise you didn’t ask for. 🙃
Check out these window handles! This is exactly why I test every single fixture, handle, and switch—even on a new build. Small misses like this can be a sign of a rushed job. My goal? Making sure you don't have a "to-do" list the second you get your keys. Keep those standards high! 🛠️✨ https://youtube.com/shorts/XNTQizO2hag?si=Uo1o9tlK5tpqgvAp #NewBuild #HomeInspectorLife #HomeBuying101 #ConstructionFail #newhome
Cid Herlein
5 days ago1 min read
My ears are still ringing. 📢
Rule #1 of home buying: If the garage door announces your arrival to the entire neighborhood, we’ve got a problem. https://youtube.com/shorts/JDmoG20itWs?si=gcXsjz_izhmRrWQO #HomeInspection #ConstructionLife #NoiseComplaint #RealEstate
Cid Herlein
Jan 121 min read
When the realtor says "The key is at the front desk"
I thought I was showing up for a home inspection, but apparently, I stepped into a time machine back to a 1994 Exxon station. ⛽️🥄 The only thing missing is the smell of stale coffee and a rack of beef jerky. If I lose this "fob," I’m pretty sure I lose my license. Anyone else getting flashbacks to asking the cashier for the bathroom key? 😂 https://youtube.com/shorts/862uZHycXxg?si=Vg7pSboT8Ty9fBv0 #HomeInspectorLife #RealEstateHumor #OldSchool #HomeInspection #Th
Cid Herlein
Jan 101 min read
New Build Mistake? 🤔
Tell me you didn’t think this through without telling me... ⛈️🏃♂️ Picture this: It’s 6:00 AM, you’re in your towel, and the toaster trips the GFCI. 🍞 Instead of just hitting a "Reset" button on the kitchen wall, you have to find your shoes, grab a flashlight, and head out to the main electrical panel in the backyard. Why? Because the builder saved a few bucks (or a few minutes) by using GFCI breakers at the panel instead of outlets in the room. This is why you always get
Cid Herlein
Jan 71 min read
Attention Northwest Arkansas Homeowners! 🚨
Attention Northwest Arkansas Homeowners! 🚨 Think a new construction home is "turn-key"? Think again. During a recent new home inspection, I discovered a large portion of the attic was completely missing its blown-in insulation. Why this matters: Higher Utility Bills: Your AC will work overtime. Ice Dams: In winter, this leads to costly roof damage. Comfort: Uneven temperatures throughout the house. Buying a new home in Northwest Arkansas? Ensure your investment is p
Cid Herlein
Jan 51 min read
Why "Good Enough" Grading Isn’t Enough. 🏠💧
Why "Good Enough" Grading Isn’t Enough. 🏠💧 In this video, you’re looking at a recipe for an oversaturated foundation. When new construction homes are built this close together, the grading between them is everything. As you can see, the water from the upper house—including all that gutter runoff—is being directed straight toward the foundation of the lower home. Without a proper swale or drainage system to divert that water to the street or a back basin, the lower homeown
Cid Herlein
Jan 21 min read
Proof that "brand new" and "finished" aren't always the same thing. 😂
Standard Friday afternoon craftsmanship on display here! These might seem small, but if they missed the obvious stuff in this video, imagine what’s hiding behind the drywall. 🧐 Tag a friend who needs a pre-closing inspection! 👇 #ConstructionFail #HomeInspectorLife #NewBuild #RealEstateHumor #HomeBuying
Cid Herlein
Jan 11 min read


Hidden leak or just a hidden spot? 🕵️♂️
Found this during today’s home and mold inspection. It’s in a spot most people would never think to check—and honestly, I’m still trying to figure out if this was a "creative" DIY cover-up or just a really unfortunate location for a leak to start. This is exactly why we don’t just look at the obvious areas. A little moisture here today could mean a massive repair bill tomorrow. Does this look like a "hider" to you, or just bad luck? Let me know in the comments! 👇 #homein
Cid Herlein
Dec 30, 20251 min read


This is why you always inspect new construction! 🚩
Even with a builder's warranty, you don't want to move your furniture in only to find out the floors are failing. We found warping and movement on this brand-new build today. Get the inspection. Get the peace of mind. 🏠✨ #HomeInspector #BuildingADreamHome #ConstructionLife #UnderContract #NewBuild
Cid Herlein
Dec 18, 20251 min read


🏗️ New Construction Doesn’t Mean "Perfect"
You’d think a brand-new home would be move-in ready, but this recent home inspection proved otherwise. While inspecting a bedroom in this new construction build, I found a major issue: completely missing insulation. Without a proper thermal barrier, the owners would have faced: 📈 Sky-high energy bills. ❄️ Freezing winters and boiling summers. 💧 Potential moisture and condensation issues. This is exactly why you need an independent certified home inspector—even if the
Cid Herlein
Dec 17, 20251 min read


🚨 New Construction Mistake Alert! 🚨
I found a significant flaw on a recent new build inspection: the flashing and soffit were completely missed in this section of the roof! 🤦♂️ This isn't just cosmetic; it's a huge issue that leaves the home vulnerable: 💧 Water Intrusion: A direct path for rain to leak into the attic, leading to rot, mold, and expensive damage. 🐛 Pest Access: An open invitation for rodents, insects, and other pests to make themselves at home in the attic space. If you’re buying new const
Cid Herlein
Dec 16, 20251 min read


Future roof leak?
Exposed roofing nails are one of the most common spots for a leaky roof! 😬 When a nail head isn't sealed or covered, it creates a direct path for water infiltration, leading to premature decay and costly water damage inside your home. The Fix: Nails should always be driven through the shingle below and then covered by the shingle above. Home Inspector Tip: Never let your roof look like a pin cushion! #HomeInspection #RoofingDefects #LeakyRoof #HomeMaintenance #newco
Cid Herlein
Dec 8, 20251 min read
Safety Alert! 🚨
Found this critical miss during a new construction inspection today right here in Northwest Arkansas. A builder skipped the required GFCI circuit breaker for this install! GFCI (Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupter) protection is non-negotiable for safety, especially in wet or outdoor areas. Don't assume everything is up to standard—always get an independent inspection! 👷 Click the video to see exactly where they missed it! #HomeInspection #GFCI #ElectricalSafety #New
Cid Herlein
Dec 5, 20251 min read


GP of the home?
Inspecting a home is never a one-size-fits-all job! From navigating the charm (and quirks!) of historic homes with their aged systems and unique construction, to assessing the latest building standards and complex smart features in a brand new build, a home inspector needs serious versatility. One day you're hunting for knob-and-tube wiring, the next you're checking HVAC efficiency. We adapt to ensure a thorough inspection, no matter the age! #HomeInspection #OldHouseChar
Cid Herlein
Dec 4, 20251 min read
Thank you for the kind words! 🙏
Just received this incredible review, and it truly made our day! Knowing we can help clients feel fully informed about their future home is what it's all about. "Cid was extremely thorough and has a heart for service. If you want to know everything, good and bad about a home you are looking to buy, he is your guy." If you're looking for a thorough inspection before you buy, send me a DM or visit my website (link in bio)! #HomeInspection #RealEstate #HomeBuyer #ThoroughInsp
Cid Herlein
Dec 3, 20251 min read


🏠 Inspection Update: The Trickle-Down Theory of Home Repair
You never know who you'll find helping out on a job! Today, I had a very distinguished guest sitting in on the inspection. He kept saying the leaky faucet problem would fix itself if we just cut taxes on the rich pipes. Don't worry, I trust my tools more than his economics. Everything's still getting checked! 😉 #ReaganomicsOfRealEstate #HomeInspectionHumor #CardboardCrew #TheGreatCommunicator #HomeInspectorLife
Cid Herlein
Dec 3, 20251 min read


🕵️♂️ The Case of the Missing Access Panel.
I came, I saw, I couldn't access. 🤷♂️ Dear tub installers: The access panel isn't optional—it's the VIP door for inspecting the motor and plumbing! Right now, this jacuzzi is a beautifully drywalled secret. 🚫🛁 #HomeInspectionFails #NoAccessNoPeace #JacuzziCheck #InspectorLife #HomeInspector
Cid Herlein
Nov 18, 20251 min read


⚠️ Hot & Cold Faucet Safety Check! 🛁
Did you know incorrectly connected hot and cold water lines are a major safety hazard, especially for kids? If the lines are swapped, a child expecting cold water could get a sudden blast of scalding hot water, leading to serious burns. 🔥 As your home inspector, I always check for hot and cold supply at every faucet. This consistency is crucial for predictable and safe use! Protect your family: Always verify your supply lines are correct! #HomeInspector #ChildSafety
Cid Herlein
Nov 12, 20251 min read


Don't let attic access be an obstacle! 🚫
Did you know your HVAC system needs regular maintenance and a clear path for repairs? As your home inspector, I look for a walkway or decking in the attic leading to the air handler/furnace. Without one, technicians risk injury, and repairs can be harder, costlier, or even missed entirely! Safety first, easy access always! #HomeInspection #HVACMaintenance #AtticSafety #HomeOwnerTip #SafetyFirst
Cid Herlein
Nov 10, 20251 min read
🧐 Playing "Spot the Problem"
It's a tricky game, but someone has to play it! 😉 During a recent new construction inspection, I found a few missing nails and some unsealed exposed fasteners hiding out on the roof. This might seem small, but those tiny gaps are a direct invitation for water to sneak in and cause major headaches down the road! 💧 Think of your home inspector as the second set of eyes that catches the things the busy builder (or roofer!) might overlook. It's all about catching the small mi
Cid Herlein
Nov 5, 20251 min read
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