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One common 'hidden' mistake in new builds... 🚩
I’m at a brand new construction today, and look what’s missing: the return air vent for the downstairs zone. A lot of builders think one giant return at the top of the stairs is "good enough." Spoiler alert: It’s not. Without a dedicated return downstairs, your HVAC system is basically trying to breathe through a straw. The result? Uneven temperatures (Cold spots vs. Hot spots) Stale, stuffy air downstairs Higher energy bills because your unit is working overtime Don
Cid Herlein
24 hours ago1 min read
You can’t inspect what you can’t power up! ⚡️
Showing up to a new construction inspection today to find the lights off is every inspector’s nightmare. It turns out this isn’t just a fluke—a massive power outage has left 20,000+ neighbors in the dark. https://youtube.com/shorts/KWwn8HBbCK4?si=Fa8CNPnbuy87HWza #HomeInspection #NewConstruction #HomeInspectorLife #NorthwestArkansas #PowerOutage
Cid Herlein
7 days ago1 min read
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
Jan 151 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
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


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


🏠 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


Mold Report 😬
Just finished reviewing some of the worst mold results I've seen all year. It's a stark reminder of why we do what we do. 🕵️♂️ This...
Cid Herlein
Sep 25, 20251 min read
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