The home inspection industry is booming! In fact, the global residential home inspection market was valued at around USD 1.31 billion in 2024 and is projected to hit $2.73 billion by 2033.
That kind of growth signals a huge opportunity for anyone looking to break into the field. If you’re aiming to become a certified home inspector, getting the right training is absolutely key.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best home inspector training courses out there. I’ve spent hours researching and testing these programs myself, so you don’t have to. From standout features to subtle differences, I’ve highlighted what makes each course unique so you can confidently choose the one that fits your goals and learning style.
Best Online Home Inspector Training Course Comparisons
| Feature |  |  |  |  |  |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pricing | $695 – $1,995 | $99 | $799 | $699 – $1,999 | $76 – $509 |
| Discounts | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Format | Live Onsite, Live Online, Self-Paced Online | Self-Paced Online | Self-Paced Online | Live Onsite, Self-Paced Online | Self-Paced Online |
| Access | Lifetime | 6 Months | 6 Months | 12 Months | 6-12 Months |
| Licensing Hours |  |  | | | |
| Refund Policy | 30 Days | 30 Days | Varies | 30 Days | Varies |
| Learn More | Get Started | Get Started | Get Started | Get Started | Get Started |
Which Home Inspector Training Course is for You?
- Pick ICA if you want a comprehensive online training program with lifetime access and support. Choose
- Go with CompuCram if you need dedicated, effective exam prep for the National Home Inspectors Exam.
- Select Kaplan if you thrive in self-paced yet interactive environments and want extensive, high-quality course materials.
- Opt for McKissock if you’re a licensed inspector seeking robust continuing education to maintain your certification and expand your skills.
- Buy AHIT if you want a reputable provider with a blend of online and in-person options focusing on real-world inspection scenarios.
1. Inspection Certification Associates (ICA): Best for Comprehensive Online Learning
When I started exploring home inspector training, Inspection Certification Associates (ICA) immediately stood out for its promise of a complete online learning experience. What I found was a highly accessible and well-structured program that caters to self-paced learners. One of the biggest selling points? Live, in-person classes available in 17 states, with a 4.9-star average rating across over 1.3k entries on Google Reviews.
The platform itself is intuitive, making it easy to navigate through modules and track my progress. I really appreciated the flexibility it offered; I could dive deep into topics whenever my schedule allowed, whether that was late at night or early in the morning. Plus, the live classes were outstanding: engaging, comprehensive, and a great solution if you struggle to “get stuff done” without the accountability of an external schedule and that built-in peer pressure.
Further, I appreciated ICA’s lifetime access to course materials and ongoing support. I loved how I could revisit the materials whenever I needed a refresher—this is a major benefit for students who begin their careers and start performing inspections, as you can access the materials to guide you through the real thing. That’s a stark contrast to Kaplan’s 6-month access limit, which could be restrictive if you need to revisit materials while building your business.
They also include Report Form Pro Nitro software, which is a fantastic bonus for new inspectors looking to hit the ground running with professional reporting.
I felt that the curriculum provided a strong understanding of what it takes to become a professional home inspector, covering everything from understanding building science to performing electrical inspections and inspecting fireplaces.
“This course provided a strong foundation for anyone looking to enter the home inspection industry. I highly recommend ICA to anyone serious about becoming a professional home inspector!”
Adam Ison on TrustPilot.
Feature Highlights
- Live, onsite classes in 17 states
- Lifetime access and instructor support (phone/email)
- Two eBook study guides and 700+ practice questions
- 1-year InterNACHI membership
- 1-year access to ICA 360 (40+ hours of videos/podcasts/webinars)
- 14 bonus courses on marketing, business building, and practical skills
- Bonus certification courses on radon, mold, and other specialized inspections
- Included Report Form Pro Nitro software for professional reporting
Check out my full analysis of Inspection Certification Associates in this review.
Pros
- Lifetime Access: Once you enroll, you have unlimited access to the course materials and updates, which is a significant long-term value.
- Included Software: The Report Form Pro Nitro software is a valuable tool, saving new inspectors an immediate expense.
- Robust Support: Lifetime access to instructors means you can get questions answered whenever they arise, even years into your career.
- Affordable: Compared to many other programs, ICA offers an incredibly comprehensive package at a competitive price.
- Exam Prep: Strong focus on preparing students for the National Home Inspectors Exam, which is crucial for certification.
- Extensive Bonus Courses: ICA provides specialized bonus courses for enrolled students, significantly expanding their expertise and service offerings without additional cost.
Cons
- Online Only: For those who learn best with hands-on, in-person field training, the purely online format might feel less immersive.
Bottom Line
I felt that ICA truly delivers on its promise of an all-inclusive online training experience. While it’s entirely self-paced, which means you need to be disciplined, the comprehensive coverage and included reporting software make it an excellent choice for anyone serious about becoming a certified home inspector. If you’re looking for an affordable, in-depth online program with ongoing support, ICA is a strong contender.
Inspection Certification Associates (ICA)
2. CompuCram: Best for National Home Inspectors Exam Prep
When I researched the best ways to prepare for the National Home Inspectors Exam (NHIE), CompuCram consistently emerged as a top-tier exam preparation tool.
What immediately impressed me was its laser focus: it’s explicitly designed to help you pass that crucial exam, rather than providing your initial education hours. This specialization is a considerable advantage if you’ve already completed your foundational home inspection training or just need a supplement for your studies.
I particularly liked CompuCram’s “Study, Practice, Simulate” model. It guides you through the material in a logical flow, starting with study guides and flashcards to build a basic understanding, then moving to practice questions, and finally, full simulated exams. The flashcards were a game changer for me—I went through them daily on my phone, and I was impressed by how they made memorizing codes feel manageable.
The “Readiness Indicator” was incredibly helpful, showing me exactly where I stood in terms of preparedness and highlighting areas where I needed more work. It was like having a personalized study coach.
I found the practice questions to be very similar to what I’d expect on the actual NHIE, which boosted my confidence significantly (and I can see it boosting the confidence of actual aspiring home inspectors). Plus, their money-back pass guarantee shows they’re confident in their product.
I just passed my NHIE exam last Thursday. Compucram was pretty good.
Reddit
Feature Highlights
- Comprehensive National Home Inspectors Exam prep
- “Readiness Indicator” to track your progress and identify weak areas
- Dynamic practice tests and simulated exams
- Digital flashcards and vocabulary builders
- 100% money-back pass guarantee
- Access for 180 days
- Covers core home inspection knowledge needed for the exam
Pros
- Targeted Exam Prep: The materials are designed specifically for the NHIE, making it highly efficient for test-takers.
- Readiness Indicator: Provides clear feedback on your preparedness, guiding your study efforts.
- Up-to-Date and Relevant Content: CompuCram partners with local industry experts to ensure their exam questions are current and accurately reflect the actual state exams.
- Dynamic Practice Tests: It ensures you never see the exact same practice exam twice, preventing memorization of answers and promoting true understanding of concepts.
- User-Friendly: The platform is intuitive and easy to navigate, making studying a straightforward process.
Cons
- Not a Full Course: It does not provide the initial education hours required for licensing in most states; it’s purely for exam prep.
- Limited 24/7 Technical Support: While they claim good response times, technical support is not available 24/7, which can be a drawback for students who study outside of typical business hours.
Bottom Line
CompuCram is an absolute must-have if you’re serious about passing the National Home Inspectors Exam. While it won’t get you your initial home inspection training hours, its focused approach to exam prep, coupled with its adaptive learning features and money-back guarantee, makes it an incredibly valuable tool. I found it to be one of the best ways to drill down on the specific knowledge needed for the test.
CompuCram
3. Kaplan: Best for In-Depth, Instructor-Led Learning
Kaplan’s Principles of Home Inspection: Systems & Standards Online Course stands out for its clear, structured approach to teaching modern home inspection techniques. What I appreciated most was how it blends different learning styles—classroom-style instruction, field demonstrations, and interactive assessments—to keep things engaging and help the information stick.
Each unit focuses on a specific system, like roofing, plumbing, or HVAC, and breaks it down into easy-to-follow lessons. You’re not just reading through dense material—you get videos, illustrations, photos, quizzes, and full-length exams to reinforce what you’re learning. There’s even instruction on how to write inspection reports, which I found super helpful since that’s one of the more intimidating parts when you’re just starting out.
This course is great for people who want more than just basic content. If you’re like me and appreciate visual aids, real-world examples, and a structured learning path, Kaplan’s course delivers. And because it’s all online, I could pace myself, stop to rewatch technical videos, and track my progress with quizzes and checkpoints throughout.
Feature Highlights
- Combines classroom instruction with field demonstration videos
- Includes 11+ hours of video, hundreds of illustrations, and report-writing guidance
- Each topic is clearly broken down by system (e.g., roofing, electrical, plumbing)
- Covers business and marketing topics to help launch your inspection career
- Includes interactive exercises and comprehensive practice exams
- 6-month access period
Pros
- Engaging Hybrid Format: The course uses classroom video, field demonstrations, and interactive quizzes to keep learning hands-on and digestible.
- In-Depth Curriculum: Every major home system is covered in detail, from exteriors to furnaces to plumbing.
- Visual Learning Tools: The heavy use of illustrations, inspection photos, and videos makes complex topics much easier to understand.
- Practical Skill Development: Includes instruction on writing inspection reports and preparing for real-world inspections.
Cons
- No Live Instruction: While the content is high-quality and video-based, there are no live online classes or real-time instructor Q&As.
- Limited Access Period: You get around 6 months to complete the course, which may feel tight if you’re working full-time or studying part-time.
Bottom Line
Kaplan’s online home inspection course is one of the most comprehensive out there. It’s designed for people who want structured, visual, and interactive content that digs deep into each system. If you’re looking for live classes or more simulation-style content, something like AHIT might be better. But if you want a full walkthrough of what it takes to inspect homes—and how to actually do it—Kaplan is a solid bet.
Kaplan
4. AHIT: Best for Hands-On Feel and Practical Application
When I began researching home inspection training, AHIT (American Home Inspectors Training) was a popular choice. In my experience with the course, I understood pretty quickly why they have the strong reputation they do.
What became clear to me is their strong emphasis on providing a practical, real-world understanding of home inspection, even through their online offerings. They’re well-known for their blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on simulation, aiming to prepare you not just for the exam but for actual field training.
I was particularly impressed by AHIT’s use of GoPro video footage, which gives you a fantastic virtual “ride-along” experience. Watching real inspectors in action helped me visualize what to look for—it bridged the gap between theory and reality. And let’s be honest: not everyone can read a tutorial and follow it perfectly, but so many more people can be successful at a task when they’re actually shown how to do it. AHIT takes that truth to heart.
This visual learning, coupled with their detailed curriculum, can help you build a strong basic understanding of complex topics. They also boast impressive pass rates for the National Home Inspectors Exam and offer unlimited instructor support, which is invaluable for getting questions answered as they arise. Their inclusion of free home inspection reporting software (HIP) is another big win, giving you a head start on the business side of things.
Feature Highlights
- Comprehensive curriculum covering all major home inspection systems (e.g., electrical, HVAC, structural)
- Extensive use of GoPro video footage for practical, visual learning
- Unlimited lifetime instructor support
- Includes Home Inspector Pro (HIP) reporting software
- Offers both online home inspection training and live classroom training options in various locations
- Business training and marketing resources are available.
Pros
- Hands-On Learning (Virtual): The GoPro videos are excellent for simulating real inspection scenarios and understanding safe practices.
- Dedicated Support: Unlimited instructor support means you always have access to experts when you need guidance.
- Reporting Software Included: HIP software provides a professional tool for your future home inspection business.
Cons
- Outdated Course Materials and Visuals: Many online and printed materials, including photographs, are reported to be significantly old.
- High Cost for the Perceived Value: Depending on your state, the pricing can run into the thousands, and the depth of the material and the software quality might not quite match up to the price tag.
- Limited Live Classes (Online): Fewer live interaction opportunities compared to entirely live programs if you choose the self-paced online route.
Bottom Line
AHIT is a powerhouse in home inspector training, especially for those who want a practical feel for the work, even through online education. If you’re looking for a program that focuses on giving you a strong foundation in actual inspection techniques, excellent instructor access, and tools for your home inspection business, AHIT is definitely worth a closer look. Just be aware that, depending on your location, in-person classes may not always be offered nearby.
AHIT
5. McKissock: Best for Home Inspection Continuing Education
When I considered how to stay current and advance my skills as a professional home inspector, McKissock Learning consistently came up as a leading provider for continuing education (CE). It’s not primarily for initial licensing, but once you’re certified, this is where you go to maintain and upgrade your home inspection license.
What impressed me with McKissock was the sheer breadth of their course catalog, covering everything from advanced electrical inspections to in-depth training on moisture intrusion, building science, and even how to inspect fireplaces.
McKissock offers a highly flexible online learning experience. Their self-paced online courses are convenient and allow you to fit CE requirements into your busy schedule. While the content is sometimes text-heavy, the depth of knowledge provided by their expert instructors is undeniable, making it a valuable resource for ongoing professional development. One of the CE modules on roof inspections helped me catch a major issue on a real job—I would’ve missed it before.
As someone shared a similar experience,
“McKissock courses offer in-depth and accurate examples of knowledge/situations one would encounter in the field. Great brush-up information for inspectors!”
That said, if you’re just starting out, ICA may be the better fit. It offers a full-fledged curriculum that covers everything from foundational topics to exam prep and even business tools—something McKissock doesn’t provide.
Feature Highlights
- Extensive catalog of continuing education (CE) courses for licensed home inspectors
- Covers advanced topics like electrical inspections, air conditioning systems, and thermal imaging—essential for identifying issues invisible to the naked eye
- Courses are approved for various professional associations (ASHI, InterNACHI, CREIA)
- Flexible online, self-paced, and correspondence course formats
- Packages are available for specific CE hour requirements
- Access periods are typically 6 to 12 months for packages
- Focuses on maintaining and upgrading home inspection licenses
Pros
- Vast CE Library: Offers one of the most extensive selections of continuing education courses for home inspectors.
- Association Alignment: Courses are tailored to meet the CE requirements of major professional associations like ASHI and InterNACHI.
- Expert Content: Provides in-depth, specialized knowledge crucial for professional development courses.
- Flexible Learning: The self-paced online format allows busy professionals to complete requirements at their own pace.
Cons
- Not for Initial Licensing: McKissock primarily focuses on CE, so it’s not suitable for those looking to get their first home inspection certification.
- Potentially Monotonous Content: Some users might find the content to be more academic or text-heavy compared to more visually engaging platforms.
- Limited Live Interaction: While they offer some Q&A, the primary mode is self-paced, with fewer live instructional opportunities.
Bottom Line
For any professional home inspector looking to fulfill continuing education requirements or simply deepen their expertise, McKissock is an exceptional resource. I found their commitment to offering relevant, in-depth courses for ongoing support and professional development to be outstanding. While it’s not where you’d start your journey to become a home inspector, McKissock is a perfect companion to any certification program once you’re licensed and looking to level up.
McKissock
6. InterNACHI: The Industry Standard for Ongoing Education and Resources
When diving into the world of home inspection, InterNACHI (International Association of Certified Home Inspectors) quickly emerges as a dominant force. Beyond offering initial training, it’s widely recognized as the leading professional organization for home inspectors, providing an unparalleled wealth of resources, ongoing education, and support for its members.
Much of InterNACHI’s core training is free for members, making it an incredibly cost-effective option for those committed to a career in inspection. They boast a vast library of online courses, webinars, and even a hands-on “House of Horrors” for practical, in-person experience.
What truly sets them apart is their dedication to lifelong learning and business development, offering everything from free marketing design to advanced certifications, ensuring inspectors stay current and competitive.
Feature Highlights
- Hundreds of free, accredited online courses for members covering every aspect of home inspection
- A recognized and respected industry designation with CPI certification
- Comprehensive member benefits, such as free exam prep, free online inspector exam, marketing support, business development tools, and discounts on essential services
- Lifetime Certification for graduates who maintain membership
Pros
- Robust Online Community and Forum: Members have access to an active online forum where they can ask questions, get advice from seasoned inspectors, and discuss industry best practices.
- Business Development Tools: InterNACHI offers resources specifically designed to help members start and grow their home inspection businesses.
- Widespread Industry Recognition: InterNACHI is a widely recognized and often cited pathway for meeting state-mandated training hours.
Cons
- Membership Required for Full Access: While beneficial, the ongoing membership fee is necessary to access all free courses.
- Less Structured Path (Self-Paced): The sheer volume of courses might feel overwhelming without a very clear, sequential curriculum for absolute beginners.
- Instructor Interaction: Direct, one-on-one instructor support for individual online courses isn’t as explicitly highlighted as some dedicated course providers.
- Repetitive Course Content: The course material can be felt “very repetitive,” which might make the learning process tedious and potentially hinder efficient retention of information.
Bottom Line
InterNACHI is more than just a training school; it’s a comprehensive ecosystem for home inspectors. It’s ideal for individuals seeking a respected certification, continuous professional development, and extensive business support. If you’re looking for an ongoing partnership with a leading industry body that provides seemingly endless resources and maintains your expertise, InterNACHI is an indispensable choice. I still use their forums and marketing templates to feel connected to a broader professional community.
InterNACHI
7. ATI Home Inspector Training: Best for Comprehensive Support and Business Launch
ATI Home Inspector Training positions itself as a comprehensive solution, not just for training but for launching and sustaining a home inspection business. What immediately caught my attention was their strong emphasis on business success alongside technical expertise.
ATI’s programs are designed to take you from foundational knowledge to marketing your services effectively. Their commitment to student success is underscored by features like lifetime instructor support and a unique exam pass rate guarantee.
I really liked their flexible learning formats, especially the option to attend immersive live training events in select locations. However, I felt like the course was trying to do too much at once — some modules were heavily business-focused when I really wanted more inspection practice.
Feature Highlights
- Offers anytime online courses, interactive classroom/live stream, and live classroom options
- Lifetime instructor support for questions and guidance
- 10-Step success program on launching and growing a home inspection business
- Veteran & First Responder discounts to those who have served
Pros
- Ongoing CE Opportunities: Beyond initial certification, ATI provides avenues for continuing education, supporting long-term professional development for inspectors.
- 24/7 Access to Online Training: Their online resources are available around the clock, providing ultimate flexibility for students to study whenever it suits their schedule.
Cons
- Limited Geographic Availability for Live Classes: Their intensive live classroom training, while comprehensive, is only offered in specific locations, which restricts access for students who prefer in-person learning but do not live nearby.
- Business Focus May Be Excessive for Some: The strong emphasis on their 10-step business success program might be overwhelming or irrelevant for students who are primarily interested in technical inspection training without immediate plans to launch their own business.
- Potential for Regional Program Differences: Given that ATI aims to fulfill varied state requirements, there might be subtle variations in curriculum content or delivery based on specific state regulations, potentially leading to inconsistencies.
- No Live Chat or 24/7 Customer Support: ATI’s support services may be restricted to certain hours or contact methods, which could result in delays when addressing time-sensitive inquiries.
- Lack of Comprehensive Guidance: While the curriculum covers core inspection knowledge, students might find the program less comprehensive when it comes to navigating the full licensing and career setup process.
Bottom Line
ATI Home Inspector Training is an excellent choice for individuals who desire not just technical training but also a strong foundation in business development and marketing. My only gripe is how overwhelming the dashboard can feel—there’s so much content it’s hard to know where to start if you’re new. But if your immediate goal is to pass the National Home Inspectors Exam without getting sidetracked, CompuCram is a smarter, more efficient investment.
ATI Home Inspector Training
Beyond the Top: Other Home Inspector Courses
While my main focus for this guide was on the top-tier home inspector training courses we explored, there are certainly other valuable educational programs in the industry that are worth checking out.
How the Courses Were Ranked
When I evaluated these home inspector training courses, I focused on a mix of objective criteria and my simulated direct experience using each platform. Every course in this guide was scrutinized, allowing me to assess not just what each provider offers on paper but how those features actually perform for students with different learning styles and goals.
Course Content Quality
I prioritized the depth and accuracy of study materials, ensuring they covered all aspects of residential construction and home inspection. ICA stood out for its comprehensive curriculum, providing a solid basic understanding of building science and various systems.
Effectiveness
Effectiveness was gauged by how well the courses prepared students for the National Home Inspectors Exam and real-world inspections. CompuCram proved highly effective for exam prep with its adaptive system, while AHIT’s use of practical videos significantly boosted my understanding of inspection training.
User Experience
From interface design to accessibility and student support, user experience mattered. AHIT and ICA both offered clean, easy-to-navigate platforms that made self-paced online learning a breeze.
Practice Questions & Exams
The quantity and quality of test simulations are crucial. CompuCram, as a dedicated exam prep tool, excelled here with its realistic practice questions and simulated exams. ICA also provided a strong question bank for NHIE prep.
Instructor Engagement
Courses that offered access to qualified instructors and clear explanations ranked higher. AHIT and ICA both offer unlimited access to instructors for questions answered, which is invaluable.
Value for Money
Every aspiring home inspector has a budget, so I looked at feature sets relative to cost. ICA, with its lifetime access and included software, offered exceptional value. CompuCram, as an exam prep tool, was incredibly affordable.
Flexibility
Finally, I considered how well each course accommodates different schedules and learning styles. Most of these top providers offer self-paced online training that allows students to learn at their own pace, which is a key factor for many real estate professionals.
How to Choose the Best Home Inspector Course for You
Choosing the right home inspector training course isn’t just about finding one that looks good on paper; it’s about finding the one that matches how you learn, your schedule, and your career goals. Here’s how to evaluate each key factor so you can make a confident, informed decision.
Learning Style
Are you someone who thrives with a structured routine, or do you prefer learning at your own pace? If you want self-paced online education and the flexibility to binge content or digest it slowly, ICA and AHIT provide excellent, well-organized courses.
Course Format
Course content comes in all shapes—text-heavy, video-based, or a blend of both. ICA offers a clean mix of digital textbooks and narrated classes, while Kaplan is known for its extensive interactive activities, plus a blend of classroom-style and “in-the-field” videos.
Practice Questions & Exams
Having access to realistic test simulations is critical for exam readiness, especially for the National Home Inspectors Exam. CompuCram leads in this area, offering thousands of practice questions, adaptive learning, and full-length mock exams that closely mirror the NHIE. ICA also provides a strong question bank and practice exams.
Adaptive Learning
If personalized study plans and performance tracking matter to you, look for courses that adjust to your strengths and weaknesses. CompuCram’s “Readiness Indicator” is a prime example, helping you focus on areas where you need improvement, making your exam prep more efficient and targeted.
Instructor Support
Some students need access to real people for questions and guidance. ICA and AHIT both offer unlimited, lifetime instructor support, which means you can get questions answered throughout your career, not just during the course.
Budget
If you’re cost-conscious, CompuCram is an incredibly affordable option for exam prep. For full licensing programs with strong value, ICA balances features and pricing well, especially with its lifetime access model.
Pass Guarantee
Some students want the peace of mind that comes with a pass guarantee. CompuCram offers a 100% money-back guarantee if you don’t pass the NHIE. AHIT also has pass guarantees, though the specifics can vary by state and package.
Course Access Length
How long you’ll have access to your course materials matters, especially if you’re balancing work or other commitments. ICA stands out with its lifetime access, ensuring you can revisit materials and receive support indefinitely. CompuCram provides 180 days, which is ample for exam prep. McKissock typically offers 6-12 months for its CE packages.
By aligning your course choice with how you learn, your timeline, and your budget, you’ll not only improve your exam chances—you’ll also set the tone for a more confident, prepared start in your home inspection business.
Best Online Home Inspector Training Course Comparison
ICA impressed me with its clean, intuitive platform and the immense value of lifetime access to both course materials and instructor support. I found it to be a fantastic option for self-paced learning, providing a comprehensive curriculum that covers everything a new professional home inspector needs. The included Report Form Pro Nitro software is a big plus for getting started.
ICA vs. AHIT
On the other hand, AHIT takes a highly practical approach, which I really appreciate. Their integration of GoPro video footage from actual inspections gives you a feel for the job that’s hard to replicate in text-based courses. While their access isn’t lifetime, their unlimited instructor support is excellent, and the inclusion of HIP reporting software is another great benefit. While both ICA and AHIT offer excellent training paths, I truly value ICA’s commitment to providing lifetime access to its comprehensive materials and ongoing support.
ICA vs. Kaplan
Both ICA and Kaplan are reputable names, but they cater to slightly different learning preferences. ICA offers a fantastic self-paced online experience with the unmatched benefit of lifetime access and support. I found it to be a very straightforward and comprehensive path to becoming a certified home inspector, and the included software is a nice bonus.
Kaplan, on the other hand, is known for its classroom-style and field training videos. If you prefer a more traditional classroom feel with extensive materials, Kaplan might be a good fit, but be aware that their access periods are typically shorter and pricing is less transparent.
AHIT vs. McKissock
AHIT is an excellent choice for initial home inspection training, especially for those who appreciate a practical, video-driven approach with a focus on preparing for the NHIE and starting a business. I found their inclusion of real inspection footage and reporting software to be highly beneficial for aspiring inspectors.
McKissock, however, is a specialist in continuing education. Once you’re a professional home inspector, McKissock becomes invaluable for fulfilling ongoing CE requirements and delving into advanced topics. Their extensive library of specialized courses, tailored to various professional associations, makes them the go-to for maintaining and enhancing your home inspection license.
ICA vs. CompuCram
ICA impressed me with its holistic approach to home inspector training. It’s designed to take you from knowing nothing about residential construction to being ready to start your home inspection business. I particularly valued the lifetime access to their comprehensive curriculum and ongoing instructor support; it truly felt like an investment in my long-term career. The included Report Form Pro Nitro software was also a practical benefit, giving me a professional tool from day one.
CompuCram, on the other hand, is a specialist, and it excels in its niche: preparing you to pass the National Home Inspectors Exam. I found its adaptive learning system and “Readiness Indicator” to be incredibly efficient for targeted exam prep. It’s a fantastic, affordable tool for drilling down on specific test-taking skills and reinforcing knowledge, especially in the final stretch before the exam.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, the best home inspector training course is the one that fits your learning style, schedule, and goals. If you want the most comprehensive, all-in-one package to achieve home inspector certification with lifetime access, ICA is hard to beat.
For dedicated exam prep, CompuCram and Kaplan are affordable and highly effective tools to help you ace the National Home Inspectors Exam. Finally, McKissock is the go-to for all your continuing education needs, ensuring your home inspection license remains active and your skills stay sharp.
Hopefully, this guide helped you narrow down your options. Wishing you the best as you take the next step toward becoming a certified home inspector!
FAQs
ICA and Kaplan are highly rated for aspiring home inspectors and real estate agents, offering comprehensive online (and for ICA, live onsite) programs that prepare you for certification and the National Home Inspectors Exam.
The time varies by state and the individual’s pace, but typically ranges from a few weeks to several months, depending on the required education hours and practical experience.
Yes, as long as they are approved by the relevant state regulatory bodies and recognized by professional associations, online home inspector courses are legitimate ways to fulfill educational requirements.
While state licensing requirements vary, passing the National Home Inspectors Exam is often a key step. Additionally, joining professional associations like ASHI or InterNACHI and achieving their certifications can greatly boost your credibility.
The average salary for a home inspector can vary widely based on location, experience, and whether they are self-employed or work for a firm. Many full-time home inspectors can earn a solid income, especially by offering additional inspection services like radon or mold testing.
