This course teaches real estate professionals and homeowners how to take a proactive approach to managing insect infestations in their properties. It covers prevention, identification, treatment, and legal requirements related to insect control in real estate transactions.
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Identify common insect pests that can cause damage to real estate properties.
- Understand the risks associated with untreated insect infestations in real estate.
- Learn best practices for preventing insect infestations in real estate properties, including identifying and sealing potential entry points.
- Understand the most effective treatment options for controlling insect infestations, including chemical and non-chemical methods.
- Understand legal and regulatory requirements related to insect control in real estate transactions.
- Learn to communicate effectively with clients, tenants, and service providers about insect control in real estate properties.
- Understand legal and regulatory requirements related to insect control in real estate transactions.
Comfort and health of occupants in a real estate property are the two common benefits of having good quality indoor air. It is critically important to have a good flow of air to reduce health hazards and accidents. Therefore, it is very much recommended before closing a deal with a potential buyer, to test the air quality of a real estate property. It is up to the real estate agent to orient the seller of the potential risks if air quality is left untreated and how it can diminish property value. In this course, fundamentals of indoor air quality testing are introduced. Hence, the knowledge gained in this course can help the real estate agent in conducting his or her sales.
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Define Indoor Air Quality
- List and define the health hazards of contaminated indoor air
- Identify the primary causes of poor indoor air quality
- Categorize the different types of indoor air quality pollutants
- Enumerate the actions taken by EPA to improve the quality of indoor air through community-based action
- Dissect the US EPA Publication for regulations regarding Indoor Air Quality Testing
- Understand the importance of Indoor Air Quality Testing
- Determine the right time to have an indoor air-quality testing
- Compare and Contrast DIY Indoor Air Quality Testing versus Professional DIY Indoor Air Quality Testing
- List and define steps for having a DIY Indoor Air Quality Testing
- Illustrate the DIY ways in improving Indoor Air Quality
- Determine the cost and advantages of professional indoor air quality testing
- List and define the elements found in an IAQ report
- Determine the common “hotspots” in a real estate property because of poor indoor air quality
- List and define the impacts of poor indoor air quality in selling a real estate property
- List and define key questions that should be answered for Indoor air quality versus Covid-19
The home inspection is one of the most crucial parts of the home buying process. Offers are finalized or revoked as a result of a home inspector’s report. A home inspection can be a source of anxiety for buyers, sellers, and real estate agents. However, real estate agents can ease some of their clients’ anxieties by helping them to be better educated and prepared for the home inspection process. Many aggravations can be avoided if the real estate agent prepares the buyer and seller before the inspection takes place.
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Set expectations for the buyer
- Explain common components of an inspection agreement
- Avoid aggravations by preparing the seller
- Avoid aggravations by preparing the buyer
The home inspection is one of the most crucial parts of the home buying process. Offers are finalized or revoked as a result of a home inspector’s report. A home inspection can be a source of anxiety for buyers, sellers, and real estate agents. However, real estate agents can ease some of their clients’ anxieties by helping them to be better educated and prepared for the home inspection process. Many aggravations can be avoided if the real estate agent prepares the buyer and seller before the inspection takes place.
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
• Set expectations for the buyer
• Explain common components of an inspection agreement
• Avoid aggravations by preparing the seller
• Avoid aggravations by preparing the buyer
For a Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loan to be approved, the home must pass an FHA inspection and appraisal. To pass inspection, the home must meet minimum safety, security, and soundness standards. This course aims to educate real estate professionals about the inspection requirements of an FHA loan so they can help their clients with buying or selling a home that will be under FHA.
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Define and understand what an FHA loan is
- Describe the role of an FHA appraiser
- List and explain the main components of an FHA appraisal
- Describe the role of a Home Inspector in the FHA appraisal process
- List and explain the areas of the home where a home inspector may be required
It is critical for real estate agents to identify the different parts of a home so they can address common questions that arise during the transaction. One area that many are not familiar with is chimneys and fireplaces. This course is aimed to better educate agents so they are more comfortable selling homes with these features and can answer those common questions that their buyers or sellers may ask.
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Describe the parts of a fireplace and chimney
- Differentiate between the various types of fireplaces
- List and explain common issues found when inspecting chimneys and fireplaces, and how each is remediated
Often times a home’s landscape and outdoor amenities play into the sale of a house. Participants of this course will learn about the basic functions of common outdoor amenities, including the garage door, sprinkler systems, and outdoor cooking equipment. Completion of this course will allow participants to provide increased insight on outdoor amenities to their clients.
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Describe the basic characteristics of outdoor amenities that are included in the inspection and sale of a home including garage doors, doorbells, fire protection systems, and outdoor grilling cooking systems.
- Identify common problems associated with outdoor amenities.
- Explain what a home inspector looks for when inspecting the area outside of a home.
Interested buyers and sellers often ask real estate agents basic questions regarding kitchen and bath appliances. Participants of this course will learn about the different types of kitchen and bath appliances available to consumers, the basics of how those appliances function, and common problems associated with those appliances. Completion of this course will allow participants to provide increased insight on kitchen and bath appliances to their clients.
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Describe the basic characteristics of kitchen appliances including dishwashers, refrigerators, food waste disposals, ranges, ovens, exhaust vents, microwave ovens and trash compactors.
- Describe the basic characteristics of bathroom appliances including mechanical exhaust vents.
- Identify common problems associated with kitchen and bath appliances.
- Explain what a home inspector looks for regarding each appliance.
This course provides an in-depth understanding of residential home foundations and crawl spaces, covering their purpose, types, construction methods, advantages, and common challenges. The course emphasizes inspection techniques, maintenance practices, and buyer/seller considerations to ensure structural integrity and compliance with building codes. Through a structured approach, participants will gain practical knowledge on foundation types, crawl space maintenance, and environmental factors affecting home foundations.
- Understand the Purpose of Home Foundations: Learn how foundations support residential structures and why they are essential for stability and longevity.
- Identify Different Types of Home Foundations: Explore slab-on-grade, basement, and crawl space foundations, including their construction, benefits, drawbacks, and maintenance needs.
- Gain Insights into Crawl Spaces: Differentiate between ventilated and unventilated crawl spaces, understand their construction, and address common challenges such as moisture control, insulation, and pest prevention.
- Learn Inspection and Maintenance Techniques: Develop skills in assessing foundation and crawl space conditions, recognizing signs of damage, and implementing effective maintenance strategies.
- Evaluate Environmental and Regulatory Factors: Understand how climate, soil conditions, and building codes impact foundation integrity and maintenance.
- Recognize Buyer and Seller Responsibilities: Assess the implications of foundation conditions during property transactions, ensuring informed decisions and regulatory compliance.
- Encourage Proactive Home Maintenance: Emphasize the importance of regular inspections, moisture management, and early issue detection to preserve a home's structural health.
Any structure built before 1978 is at risk for containing lead paint. The prevalence of lead paint may impact a buyer’s decision on whether or not to purchase a property. Sellers may have more realistic expectations regarding the sale of their property if they are aware of the implications of lead-based paint that may be present on their property. Real estate agents can help to communicate the implications of lead-based paint to their clients if they are better educated on the subject.
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
• Define lead abatement and explain why lead based paint is prevalent in buildings prior to 1978.
• Identify and explain the health implications of lead based paint poisoning.
• Describe risks of performing renovations on areas afflicted with lead based paint.
• Explain government regulations that address lead based paint.
• Describe tests available to determine if lead based paint is prevalent in a building.
• Communicate implications of lead based paint to clients.
The home inspection is one of the most crucial parts of the home buying process. Offers are finalized or revoked as a result of a home inspector’s report. A home inspection can be a source of anxiety for buyers, sellers, and real estate agents. However, real estate agents can ease some of their clients’ anxieties by helping them to be better educated and prepared for the home inspection process. A good home inspection should be thorough so that all parties have confidence when completing the home buying process.
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Explain the elements and characteristics of a home inspection
- Discuss strategies for preparing both the seller and the buyer for the home inspection
- List the steps to take when preparing a home for the inspection
- Describe common report findings
- Review questions that are frequently asked to home inspectors
The home inspection is one of the most crucial parts of the home buying process. Offers are finalized or revoked as a result of a home inspector’s report. A home inspection can be a source of anxiety for buyers, sellers, and real estate agents. However, real estate agents can ease some of their clients’ anxieties by helping them to be better educated and prepared for the home inspection process. A good home inspection should be thorough so that all parties have confidence when completing the home buying process.
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Direct their clients to the best inspectors
- Better equip the buyer for the home inspection
- Advise and prepare the seller
- Anticipate frequently asked home inspection questions
Showing a millennium home can be a challenge for a real estate agent. The home buyer and seller both have high expectations. A knowledgeable real estate agent can help make this transaction process easier by understanding the characteristics of a millennium home. Helping the prospective home buyer temper their expectations for a 10-15 year old home is important. A real estate agent’s ability to identify the typical problems found in a millennium home and put them into perspective for a buyer is necessary. A knowledgeable real estate agent can help their client know what to expect from their newer home to help ease anxiety.
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Estimate the life cycles of numerous components of a newer home
- Predict what to expect from a millennium home
- Advise and prepare the buyer
- Assess the conditions of typical parts of a millennium home that wear out
The presence of mold can derail the home buying process. Participants of this course will learn common causes of mold and how they can be addressed in order to diminish the impact of mold when buying and selling a property.
Course Objectives:
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
• Define mold and explain its common causes
• Describe health effects of mold
• Provide answers to buyers’ commonly asked questions regarding mold
• Describe the impact of mold on the real estate transaction
The presence of mold can derail the home buying process. Participants of this course will learn common causes of mold and how they can be addressed in order to diminish the impact of mold when buying and selling a property.
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Define mold and explain its common causes
- Describe health effects of mold
- Provide answers to buyers’ commonly asked questions regarding mold
- Describe the impact of mold on the real estate transaction
Assisting a buyer on a new home can be a challenge for a real estate agent and varies greatly from a typical resale inspection. The home buyer has high expectations of the finished product and those need to be managed. Navigating the relationship with the home builder takes an experienced approach with a different purchase agreement, timing milestones and general considerations. A knowledgeable real estate agent can help make this transaction easier by understanding the process and helping the buyer through the process with the home and the builder. A knowledgeable real estate agent can also help their client set reasonable expectations that can ease anxiety and help make the purchase of a new home the positive experience it should be.
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Help your buyers know what to expect from a new home
- Learn some of the considerations of new homes
- Understand the stages of construction
- Look at some of the typical problems that occur during construction
- Understand levels of quality control and workmanship standards
- Learn about life cycles of common components and appliances
This course examines the various pests and environmental hazards that can destroy a home, including those that might be missed by a traditional home inspection. It is important that real estate professionals are aware of the damage that these pests can inflict along with some warning signs of their presence so they can better advocate for their clients.
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Describe the different types of wood destroying insects
- Explain how wood destroying insects can enter and defect a home
- Describe the preventative measures that can be taken by homeowners to deter pest destruction
- List what areas of the United States is affected by each wood destroying insect
- Understand the implications of wood destroying insects on real estate transactions
Any home, regardless of when it was built, its location, or the materials used to build the home, can expose its residents to radon. Many states require that a home’s radon history be disclosed to potential buyers. As a result, radon testing may play an important role in the real estate transaction process. Real estate agents that are better informed on the potential hazards associated with radon as well as mitigation techniques will be able to better guide their clients through the real estate transaction process.
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
• Identify risks associated with long-term radon exposure.
• Describe ways that radon can infiltrate a house.
• Explain testing measures that can be used to identify the presence of radon in a home.
• Describe the benefits of radon mitigation systems.
• Guide their clients through the real estate transaction process with particular sensitivity to radon.
Any home, regardless of when it was built, its location, or the materials used to build the home, can expose its residents to radon. Many states require that a home’s radon history be disclosed to potential buyers. As a result, radon testing may play an important role in the real estate transaction process. Real estate agents that are better informed on the potential hazards associated with radon as well as mitigation techniques will be able to better guide their clients through the real estate transaction process.
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
• Identify risks associated with long-term radon exposure.
• Describe ways that radon can infiltrate a house.
• Explain testing measures that can be used to identify the presence of radon in a home.
• Describe the benefits of radon mitigation systems.
• Guide their clients through the real estate transaction process with particular sensitivity to radon.
The overall structure of a home is essentially the backbone that holds everything in place. For many, the structural integrity of a home is often viewed as the most crucial part of the home-buying process. By being able to observe and report on these critical matters during the structural portion of a home inspection, real estate agents are in a unique position to offer expertise and peace of mind to all parties involved in the home-buying process.
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Define terms commonly used during the structural portion of the home inspection process.
- Understand common causes of structural damage.
- Understand risks associated with inspecting structural components during a home inspection.
- Define what to consider during structural portion of the home inspection, including attics, basements, crawlspaces, floors, ceilings, windows, and doors.
- Define common concerns related to the inspection of the exterior structure and related components, including property lots, decks, porches and foundations.
- List examples of limitations that should be noted in a report of the structural inspection.
Water quality is a top concern for buyers and sellers in real estate. Variables for water quality such as microbiological contamination, common water quality problems, aging water systems etc. play an important role in whether or not a real estate deal can be closed. Your role as a real estate agent is to know the facts of residential water testing for you to be able to guide the clients in the process. Hence, water quality should not be taken for granted to avoid legal loopholes and possible issues during the sale.
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Define Clean Water Act and its relationship with realtors
- Compare Public Water Systems versus Private Water Supplies.
- Explain why it is important for water to be tested in residential homes.
- List and define the benefits, health hazards and impacts of having clean residential water.
- Associate a situation indicative of polluted water and the corresponding test that should solve it.
- List down possible questions for Residential Water Testing
- Discuss points that a real estate agent must be able to remember before proceeding with a sale.
The home inspection process is one of the most crucial parts of the home buying process. Offers are finalized or revoked as a result of an inspector’s report. A home, well, or septic inspection can be a source of anxiety for buyers, sellers, and real estate agents. However, real estate agents can ease some of their clients’ anxieties by better educating and preparing all parties for the home inspection process. Many aggravations can be avoided if the real estate agent prepares the buyer and seller before the inspection takes place.
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Set expectations for the buyer
- Explain common components and purpose of a septic system
- Explain the best use practices of a home septic system
- Provide the buyer general guidance on maintenance of a septic system
- Identify which jurisdiction will require a Point of Sale inspection in order to transfer the real estate
The home inspection is one of the most crucial parts of the home buying process. Many issues identified during the home inspection, if left untreated, can lead to significant costly repairs later, or even unsafe and hazardous living conditions. Offers are finalized or revoked as a result of a home inspector’s report. A home inspection can be a source of anxiety for buyers, sellers, and real estate agents. However, real estate agents can ease some of their clients’ anxieties by helping them to be better educated and prepared for the home inspection process. This course will identify the most common problem areas in a home inspection and provide real estate agents with tools and strategies they can use to allay their clients’ concerns.
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Better equip the buyer for the home inspection
- Advise and prepare the seller
- Assist their clients in understanding issues of concern raised by the home inspector
- Anticipate frequently asked questions regarding the home inspection process
One of the house’s most integral operating systems is the heating system. As a result, potential buyers may have questions or concerns about the condition of a home’s heating system. Real estate agents will be able to serve as advocates for their clients during the home buying process as a result of participating in this course.
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Describe the steps a home inspector takes when inspecting a heating system as well as the appropriate recommendations an inspector is qualified to make regarding a heating system.
- Identify and describe the fundamental components and characteristics of heating systems.
- Describe characteristics and risks associated with gas furnaces.
- Locate furnace maintenance recommendations.
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), electrical problems are the largest cause of property damage in home structure fires across the United States. Since electrical inspections are important for the safety of one’s home, they often cause anxiety to those purchasing or selling a home. Real estate agents who take this course will be guided through the steps of an electrical inspection. By understanding the process of performing residential electrical inspections, real estate agents can help give peace of mind to all parties involved in the home-buying process.
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
• Define basic safety rules to use when inspecting live electrical components, including panels and enclosures
• Identify common failures that can lead to unsafe conditions around the home
• Identify different types of electrical panels and common problem areas in each
• Understand connections and defects inside the service panel
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), electrical problems are the largest cause of property damage in home structure fires across the United States. Since electrical inspections are important for the safety of one’s home, they often cause anxiety to those purchasing or selling a home. Real estate agents who take this course will be guided through the steps of an electrical inspection. By understanding the process of performing residential electrical inspections, real estate agents can help give peace of mind to all parties involved in the home-buying process.
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Define basic safety rules to use when inspecting live electrical components, including panels and enclosures
- Identify common failures that can lead to unsafe conditions around the home
- Identify different types of electrical panels and common problem areas in each
- Understand connections and defects inside the service panel
: This course will equip real estate agents with a thorough understanding of residential outdoor and indoor pools, spas, and saunas, enabling them to better advise their clients and highlight the value of these amenities.
- Recognize the Value of Pools, Spas, and Saunas – Understand how these amenities impact residential property appeal and value for buyers and sellers.
- Differentiate Between Various Types of Pools, Spas, and Saunas – Identify and explain the construction, advantages, disadvantages, and maintenance needs of in-ground and above-ground pools, indoor pools, portable and in-ground spas, and traditional and infrared saunas.
- Understand Maintenance and Operational Considerations – Describe common maintenance practices, equipment requirements, and potential issues related to pools, spas, and saunas.
- Advise Buyers on Key Considerations – Guide buyers in assessing the condition, costs, and long-term responsibilities of owning these amenities.
- Assist Sellers in Enhancing Marketability – Help sellers prepare their properties by addressing maintenance concerns, highlighting features, and providing documentation on upkeep and repairs.
- Improve Client Guidance and Real Estate Transactions – Enhance client education by providing informed recommendations on the benefits, challenges, and upkeep of pools, spas, and saunas in residential properties.
Real estate agents can be asked to list many different types of homes. Some of these homes may have unique features such as a hidden room or an outdoor shower, however, some homes are totally unique in their construction. This course aims to educate agents on the types of unique homes, their history, and what issues are commonly found in each.
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Differentiate between the five types of unique homes
- Describe what makes each home type unique
- List the common issues found in each unique home type
For a VA-backed loan to be approved, the home must meet a minimum set of property requirements. These standards are set to ensure the property is safe, structurally sound, and sanitary, in order to protect the interests of buyers, lenders, servicers, and the VA. This course aims to educate real estate professionals about the inspection requirements of a VA-backed loan so they can help their clients with buying or selling a home that will be under a VA-backed loan.
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Describe what a VA Loan is and who can qualify for one
- List the types of VA-backed loans
- Define Minimum Property Requirements and how they relate to VA-backed loans
- Describe the purpose of a VA Loan appraiser and what to expect after the appraisal is complete
- Describe the minimum property requirement for a buyer to obtain a VA Loan
In the current competitive real estate landscape, the allure of waiving a home inspection can be tempting for prospective buyers. This course delves into the intricate role and paramount importance of home inspections in the property buying process. It is designed to empower real estate professionals with the knowledge and resources to guide their clients judiciously, even in the face of market pressures, ensuring the long-term satisfaction and safety of homeowners.
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Understand the role and importance of home inspections.
- Recognize the potential risks and consequences of waiving home inspections.
- Equip agents with the knowledge to advise clients accurately.
8100 W US HWY 20
Shipewana, IN 46565
Phone: 260-463-6558
www.goldkeyinspect.com