This week on the Thoughts from the Crawlspace podcast, Jamie Miller, CEO of Gold Key Home Inspections, Inc., shares essential energy efficiency tips for homeowners as winter approaches. With longer hours of darkness and harsher weather conditions, it's crucial to identify and address weaknesses in your home that can lead to increased energy costs and discomfort. Jamie highlights practical strategies such as sealing gaps around outlets and doors, upgrading insulation, installing programmable thermostats, and switching to LED lighting. Implementing these tips can enhance your home's comfort and reduce energy bills throughout winter.Connect with Gold Key Inspection Services!Episode HighlightsWinter brings increased energy costs, so energy efficiency tips are crucial now.Sealing air leaks around doors and outlets can significantly reduce heating bills.Consider investing in a programmable thermostat to manage your home's temperature efficiently.Upgrading to energy-efficient windows is a long-term solution for reducing energy costs.Switching to LED lighting can save energy over traditional incandescent bulbs.Regularly servicing your HVAC system ensures it operates efficiently and maintains comfort.Timestamps(00:00) Introduction to Homeownership Solutions(05:28) Upgrading to Energy Efficient Solutions(08:45) Switching to LED Lighting(16:54) Energy Efficiency Tips: Air Movement and Insulation(19:02) Energy Efficiency Tips for Your Home

This week on the Thoughts from the Crawlspace podcast, Jamie Miller, CEO of Gold Key Home Inspections, Inc., shares why winterizing your home is crucial to prevent damage and ensure comfort during the colder months. Jamie outlines key actions: removing hoses from outdoor faucets to avoid pipe He also shares why you should inspect your attics for insulation issues and seal any cracks in hard surfaces around your homes. Send us your winterization questions or share your winterization practices with us at 260-463-6558!Connect with Gold Key Inspection Services!Episode HighlightsWinterizing your home is crucial to prevent issues like frozen pipes and leaks.Remove hoses from outdoor faucets to prevent water from freezing and causing damage.Cleaning gutters prevents ice buildup that could lead to structural issues or leaks.Check windows and doors for drafts and seal them for better energy efficiency.Inspect your attic for insulation gaps and signs of pest infestations before winter.Seal cracks in hard surfaces around your home to avoid further damage from freezing water.Timestamps(00:01) Intro to Winterization Tips(00:50) Remove Hoses from Faucets (02:22) Clean Your Gutters(03:27) Check Windows and Doors(04:38) Inspect Your Attic(05:31) Seal Cracks in Hard Surfaces(06:24) Check Your Roof(07:58) Outro and Resources

This week on the Thoughts from the Crawlspace podcast, Jamie Miller, CEO of Gold Key Home Inspections, Inc., speaks with Riley Sandy,  a passionate homesteader, about the increasing interest in homesteading and growing food at home, a trend that has surged since the pandemic. Jamie and Riley discuss the basics of starting as a beginner homesteader, emphasizing the importance of understanding your growing zone to determine which plants you can cultivate successfully. Listen as Riley shares practical tips on choosing the right vegetables and herbs, along with insights on raising small animals, such as chickens and rabbits, for food production.Connect with Gold Key Inspection Services!Episode HighlightsThe increase in home gardening since 2020 highlights a growing trend towards self-sufficiency.Understanding your growing zone is crucial for successful home gardening and plant selection.Starting with hardy vegetables like potatoes and tomatoes can yield good results for beginners.Companion planting can help deter pests and improve the health of your garden.Protecting your garden from wildlife is essential to ensure your plants thrive.Timestamps(00:00) Intro to Homesteading(00:35) The Rise of Home Gardening(02:09) Getting Started with Plants(05:20) Choosing the Right Vegetables(10:41)  Introduction to Raising Animals(15:46) Tips and Mistakes in Homesteading

This week on the Thoughts from the Crawlspace podcast, Jamie Miller, CEO of Gold Key Home Inspections, Inc., speaks with Chandler Prible, head coach of Westview High School’s basketball team. Chandler shares his journey into coaching, influenced by his father’s disciplined yet caring approach. Jamie and Chandler discuss the value of fostering a positive team culture that values fun and personal development, rather than solely focusing on outcomes. Chandler also shares his strategic approach to coaching, which hinges on creating an efficient, fast-paced style of play that prioritizes teamwork and communication. Connect with Gold Key Inspection Services!Episode HighlightsThe importance of creating meaningful relationships between coaches and players.Why coaching should focus on developing character and discipline.Critical themes related to youth sports today.The challenges of keeping kids engaged in sports amidst modern distractions.Building community and character through high school basketball.Timestamps(00:00) Welcome to Thoughts from the Crawlspace(01:02) Chandler's Journey into Coaching(02:21) Coaching Philosophy and Impact(03:51) Understanding Coaching Styles(05:34) Pressure and Performance in Basketball(10:54) Upcoming Season and New Challenges(13:16) Encouraging Participation in Youth Sports(21:04) Westview Basketball’s Upcoming Season

This week on the Thoughts from the Crawlspace podcast, Jamie Miller, CEO of Gold Key Home Inspections, Inc., speaks with Chief Carlos Jasso from the Shipshewana Police Department. Carlos shares his inspiring journey from a challenging childhood in Mexico City to becoming a law enforcement leader in a small town. He emphasizes the importance of home safety and personal security, providing practical tips for homeowners on how to protect their properties and themselves, especially when leaving and returning home in the dark. Giasso also touches on self-defense laws in Indiana, explaining the rights residents have to protect their homes and families.Connect with Gold Key Inspection Services!Episode HighlightsHomeowners should prioritize securing their homes with proper locks and lighting.Situational awareness is crucial for avoiding dangerous situations and potential threats.Prepare your home with automatic lights to deter unwanted intruders when you are away.Self-defense laws in Indiana allow homeowners to protect their property and family.Training with firearms is essential to ensure safety and effective use in emergencies.Homeowners should always call 911 if they suspect a break-in or threat.Timestamps(00:00) Welcome to Thoughts from the Crawlspace(00:45) Introducing Chief Carlos Giasso(01:18) Carlos Giasso's Journey to Law Enforcement(02:57) Overcoming a Violent Childhood(08:08) Becoming a Police Officer and K9 Handler(23:34) Self-Defense and Home Safety Tips(28:46) Understanding Your Rights in Indiana(30:26) Preparing for Emergencies: Firearm Safety(38:48) Conclusion and Resources for Homeowners

This week on the Thoughts from the Crawlspace podcast, Jamie Miller, CEO of Gold Key Home Inspections, Inc., shares the top nine electrical defects commonly found in homes. Jamie explores reversed polarity, knob-and-tube wiring, and double-tapped breakers, along with straightforward solutions for each defect. He stresses the significance of addressing these issues promptly to ensure safety and compliance in home electrical systems. Listen for advice and expert recommendations that will equip you with the knowledge to navigate electrical challenges in residential properties.Connect with Gold Key Inspection Services!Episode HighlightsElectrical defects in homes can lead to serious safety hazards; it's crucial to identify and fix them.Ungrounded outlets are common in older homes and can affect appliance warranties and safety.Reversed polarity on outlets can create shock hazards, especially when changing light bulbs.Knob and tube wiring is outdated and poses fire risks; replacement is highly recommended.Double-tapped breakers can cause overheating and fire risks due to loose connections.GFCIs are essential near water sources to prevent electric shocks; ensure they are installed and functional.Timestamps(00:00) Common Electrical Issues for Homeowners(00:33) Top Nine Electrical Defects in Homes(01:00) Electrical Defect #1: Ungrounded Outlets(07:09) Electrical Defect #2: Reversed Polarity(09:04) Electrical Defect #3: Knob and Tube Wiring(12:57) Electrical Defect #4: Double Tapped Breakers(14:37) Electrical Defect #5: Oversized Breakers(15:53) Electrical Defect #6: Improper Splices(17:13) Electrical Defect #7: Uncovered Junction Boxes(17:37) Electrical Defect #8: Old or Missing GFCIs(19:20) Electrical Defect #9: Defective Panels

This week on the Thoughts from the Crawlspace podcast, Jamie Miller, CEO of Gold Key Home Inspections, Inc., speaks with Dawn Coffee, Co-Founder of Your Environmental Services (YES) Laboratories, a family-owned environmental testing lab specializing in water and radon testing. Don shares the origins of YES Labs, the services they provide, and the critical importance of environmental testing in real estate transactions. Highlighting the challenges homebuyers face and debunking common misconceptions about radon and water quality, Dawn and Jamie discuss why proper testing is a vital step for every homeowner.Connect with Gold Key Inspection Services!Episode HighlightsImportance of environmental testing: Proper water and radon testing are crucial in real estate transactions to ensure the safety and health of the home's environment.Regular water testing: Even city water can have lead contamination; annual water testing is recommended, and more frequent testing if there are changes in taste, color, or smell.Understanding well water: In addition to bacteria and nitrates, testing for metals like arsenic and lead is essential for well water.Radon testing: Radon levels can fluctuate due to several factors. Homeowners should test radon levels every two years and consider long-term monitors to ensure consistent safety.Running a business: Clear communication, defined roles, and leveraging each other’s strengths are critical for managing a successful family business.Timestamps(00:00) Clean Air, Clean Water: Essential Services for Real Estate(04:56) The Importance of Testing for Lead in City and Well Water(11:21) Understanding Water Testing and Contaminant Detection(19:39) The Importance of Regular Water and Radon Testing in Homes(29:00) Balancing Business and Marriage: Insights from Dawn Coffee(35:29) Clean Air, Clean Water: Essential Tips for Healthy LivingMentioned in this episode:Gold Key Inspecitons

This week on the Thoughts from the Crawlspace podcast, Jamie Miller, CEO of Gold Key Home Inspections, Inc., speaks with Tammie Coplin Jones, an accomplished real estate entrepreneur. Tammie shares her inspiring journey from buying her first house at 19 to running multiple successful businesses today. She also shares how her earlier experiences in the industry shaped her resilient and servant-focused approach to business. Listen as Jamie and Tammie discuss the crucial role of mentorship, the need for core values, and the significance of finding the right people to support your vision as an entrepreneur.Connect with Gold Key Inspection Services!Episode HighlightsMentorship and Education: Critical for growth in entrepreneurship. Surround yourself with mentors and continuously educate yourself.Importance of Vision and Integration: Visionaries need integrators to translate ideas into actionable plans, ensuring sustainable growth.Investing in Real Estate: Now is still a good time to invest despite higher interest rates due to the potential for property appreciation.Core Values in Business: Honesty, transparency, integrity, and innovation are essential for long-term success.Balancing Work and Personal Life: Effective time management and taking deliberate breaks are crucial for maintaining personal well-being.Timestamps(00:00) Tammie’s Journey from Young Mother to Real Estate Entrepreneur(10:10) The Impact of Rich Dad Poor Dad on Financial Literacy(15:05) Comprehensive Property Management and Investment Services(21:02) Balancing Entrepreneurship with Personal Life and Team Growth(28:34) Navigating Real Estate Cycles and Investment Opportunities(31:11) Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs and the Importance of MentorshipMentioned in this episode:Gold Key Inspecitons

This week on the Thoughts from the Crawlspace podcast, Jamie Miller, CEO of Gold Key Home Inspections, Inc., dives deep into one of the most critical aspects of home maintenance—windows. Your windows play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity, energy efficiency, and aesthetic appeal of your home. Jamie talks about operational issues, visible damage, energy efficiency, condensation problems, and the top brand. Listen to learn how to choose the right windows for your home and ensure proper installation, especially in older houses with lead-based paint.Connect with Gold Key Inspection Services!Episode HighlightsDrafts and Air Leaks: Identify if your windows are drafty or allowing air leaks, which can indicate it's time for a replacement.Operation and Safety: Ensure windows, especially in bedrooms, are operable for egress and safety purposes.Condensation and Noise: Recognize signs like condensation between panes and excessive external noise as indicators of window seal failure.Material and Cosmetic Damage: Inspect windows for visible damage or decay, particularly in wood frames.Energy Efficiency: Understand the cost-benefit analysis of replacing windows for better energy efficiency and potential long-term savings.Timestamps(01:02) Importance of Windows(01:46) Drafts and Air Leaks(03:26) Difficulty Operating Windows(05:00) Condensation Between Panes(08:25) High Energy Bills(08:52) Water Damage or Leaks(11:03) Replacing Windows: Brands and Options(12:19) Tips for Choosing Windows(13:48) Warranty and Lead Paint ConsiderationsMentioned in this episode:Gold Key Inspecitons

This week on the Thoughts from the Crawlspace podcast, Jamie Miller, CEO of Gold Key Home Inspections, Inc., dives deep into the nuances of building a new home amidst a housing shortage. With many prospective homeowners getting outbid on used homes, building new has become a viable option. Jamie shares why frequent communication and independent inspections are crucial when ensuring your new home meets your standards. Listen to learn how to choose the right builder, create a comprehensive plan, and the significance of independent inspections.Connect with Gold Key Inspection Services!Episode HighlightsDetailed Planning is Crucial: Thoroughly plan every aspect of your new home, from outlet placements to landscaping requirements, to avoid future regrets and complications.Budgeting Beyond Expectations: Prepare to exceed your initial budget by at least 20% to accommodate unexpected costs and desired upgrades.Choosing the Right Builder: Conduct comprehensive interviews and research to find a builder whose work quality and style align with your standards.Importance of Communication: Maintain consistent communication and schedule regular site visits with your builder to stay updated on the progress and address any issues promptly.Independent Inspections: Hire a qualified home inspector to ensure all phases of construction meet quality standards and detect any critical errors before finalizing the build.Timestamps(00:10) Tips for Finding the Right Builder and Planning Your New Home(04:01) Budgeting Realities and Unexpected Costs in Building Projects(05:24) Choosing the Right Builder for Your Dream Home(11:35) Effective Communication and Budgeting in Home Building Projects(14:42) Ensuring Quality in New Home Construction Through Inspections(21:14) Common Issues Found in New Home Construction Inspections(24:30) Key Exterior Home Inspection Tips for Proper Drainage and Siding(26:30) Essential Tips for Inspecting New or Flipped Homes(31:24) Essential Tips for Homebuyers and Gold Key Inspection ServicesMentioned in this episode:Gold Key Inspecitons

This week on the Thoughts from the Crawlspace podcast, Jamie Miller, CEO of Gold Key Home Inspections, Inc., speaks with Nic Wyse, a realtor from ReMax Results. Nic, who has extensive experience and serves on various boards, talks about recent national regulation changes affecting buyer-agent dynamics and commissions. He provides insights into the challenges these laws pose for new agents and buyers. Nic also highlights the promising Neighborhood Homes Investment Act aiming to revitalize blighted areas. Listen to learn how these developments impact home buyers, agents, and the real estate market in Indiana!Connect with Gold Key Inspection Services!Episode HighlightsNavigating New Legislation: Understanding and adapting to new real estate legislation is crucial for agents and buyers, as these changes bring about mandatory upfront agreements and disclosures.Importance of Integrity: Maintaining high ethical standards in real estate practice ensures long-term success and client trust.Building Community Relations: Actively participating in community events and volunteer work can foster significant business leads and establish a strong local presence.Neighborhood Homes Investment Act: This upcoming legislation aims to revitalize blighted areas by offering tax incentives for home improvements and owner-occupied sales, thus promoting community improvement and homeownership.Strategic Partnerships: Building a reliable team, like Nic's collaboration with Nathan Schwartz, can exponentially enhance business operations and client service.Timestamps(00:01) Navigating Real Estate Changes with Expert Nic Wyse(06:47) New Real Estate Laws Impacting Buyer-Agent Relationships(13:19) The Financial Impact of Homeownership Versus Renting in Retirement(14:10) Building a Successful Real Estate Team with Integrity and Persistence(19:24) Neighborhood Homes Investment Act Aims to Revitalize Blighted Areas(24:05) Real Estate Insights and Services with Nic WyseMentioned in this episode:Gold Key Inspecitons

This week on the Thoughts from the Crawlspace podcast, Jamie Miller, CEO of Gold Key Home Inspections, Inc., speaks with Jon Good, the influential editor of Real Producers magazine in Fort Wayne. With Fort Wayne being one of 140 markets nationwide for the magazine, Jon delves into the inception and growth of Real Producers, emphasizing its role as a relationship-building platform among top real estate agents and businesses. Discover why investing in relationship-building platforms is crucial, especially in fluctuating markets, and how Real Producers has become an essential tool for real estate professionals nationwide.Connect with Gold Key Inspection Services!Episode HighlightsReal Producers Magazine: A powerful networking platform for top real estate agents and related businesses, facilitating relationship-building and community growth.Hyper-Local Content: Focuses on local market stories, features top agents, and offers readers relevant and engaging material.Challenges of New Ventures: Starting with a concept and overcoming the initial skepticism to prove the magazine's worth in the Fort Wayne market.Economic Resilience: Relationship marketing remains vital through market fluctuations, with strategic investments in networking yielding long-term benefits.Personal Connections: Personal stories and networking events are important in strengthening business relationships and community ties.Timestamps(00:01) Building Relationships in Real Estate Through Real Producers Magazine(08:09) Maximizing ROI Through Consistent Branding and Community Engagement(11:29) Challenges and Successes of Launching a Real Estate Magazine(17:53) Connecting Top Realtors and Vendors Through Real Producers Magazine(23:31) Navigating Real Estate Market Shifts and Building Resilient Relationships(28:00) The Power of Personal Connections in Real Estate SuccessMentioned in this episode:Gold Key Inspecitons

This week on the Thoughts from the Crawlspace podcast, Jamie Miller, CEO of Gold Key Home Inspections, Inc., welcomes Barbara and Becky from First Federal Savings Bank in Elkhart. They discuss essential insights for aspiring homeowners, providing valuable guidance on securing a mortgage and the advantages of working with a local bank. Barbara and Becky share their professional journeys in the banking sector and actionable steps to improve one’s chances of mortgage approval.From navigating the challenges of a competitive housing market to offering tips on financial literacy and fraud prevention, this episode is packed with insights to help you in your homeownership journey!Connect with Gold Key Inspection Services!Episode HighlightsCredit Health: Maintaining a solid credit score and keeping your credit report error-free are crucial steps in securing a mortgage.Job History: At least two years of consistent employment is generally required for mortgage approval.Pre-Approval Significance: Obtaining a pre-approval letter from your bank boosts your credibility and buying power in a competitive housing market.Community Banking Benefits: Personalized customer service and local involvement make smaller banks an attractive choice for many clients.Financial Literacy Initiatives: Programs and educational efforts are key in helping individuals manage their finances effectively and avoid scams, especially for the elderly.Timestamps(00:01) Insights on Banking and Mortgages with Barbara and Becky(08:09) Navigating the Home Buying Process with Pre-Approval and Inspections(14:47) The Importance of Credit Education and Job History(17:17) Navigating Mortgage Challenges and Community Banking Benefits(25:05) Empowering Youth and Elders Through Education and Community Involvement(28:53) Guiding First-Time Homebuyers Through the Journey to Homeownership(33:06) The Importance of Personalized Customer Service in BankingMentioned in this episode:Gold Key Inspecitons

This week on the Thoughts from the Crawlspace podcast, Jamie Miller, CEO of Gold Key Home Inspections, Inc., welcomes Courtney and Cory Barber to discuss their innovative company, CG Chemicals, and delve into their journey as entrepreneurs. Cory elaborates on how they obtained the rights to these patented formulas, tested against leading brands, and converted them into a thriving business. Despite the competition, Cory emphasizes the superior quality and safety of their products which can be used for a variety of cleaning needs without harmful side effects. Balancing multiple ventures, Cory and Courtney explore how to manage personal and family time effectively while building successful businesses together.Connect with Gold Key Inspection Services!Episode HighlightsVersatile Cleaning Solutions: CG Chemicals offers two primary products, Surgical Strike and Nuclear Blast, which are effective across various surfaces and materials, providing an all-in-one cleaning solution.Non-Toxic and Environmentally Friendly: One of the key selling points of CG Chemicals' products is their safety for both users and the environment. These products are non-toxic, making them safe for plants, pets, and children.Veteran-Owned Business with a Purpose: Cory and Courtney Barber emphasize their mission extends beyond profit. They are heavily invested in giving back to the veteran community and aiding those in need.Real Estate Insights: Courtney Barber's expertise as a real estate agent highlights how great products like CG Chemicals can enhance home value and appeal, crucial for attracting buyers and securing sales in today’s market.Entrepreneurial Journey and Balance: The couple shares their experiences in managing multiple ventures, emphasizing the importance of balancing business productivity with family time, and leading by example for their children.Timestamps(00:03) Revolutionary Non-Toxic Cleaning Products for Home and Commercial Use(05:50) Veteran-Owned Business Aims to Support Veterans and Community(10:49) Versatile Non-Toxic Cleaner for Various Surfaces and Applications(14:26) Navigating Real Estate Challenges During a Pandemic(18:58) Balancing Family and Business Ventures Amidst Success and Stress(26:20) Guidance for First-Time Home Buyers in a Changing Market(28:58) Effective Stain Removal Techniques and Real-Life Cleaning Challenges(32:05) Safe and Effective Mold Remediation with Non-Toxic Cleaners(35:04) Local Entrepreneurs Discuss New Cleaning Products and Business GrowthMentioned in this episode:Gold Key Inspecitons

This week on the Thoughts from the Crawlspace podcast, Jamie Miller, CEO of Gold Key Home Inspections, Inc., dives deep into the world of house flipping, sharing expert knowledge on common pitfalls and oversights often seen in renovated properties. House flippers often aim to quickly revamp a property to make it market-ready, but not all flippers prioritize quality and thoroughness. Jamie highlights common flaws like loose plumbing, improper attic insulation, structural mishaps, and even incorrectly installed modern appliances. This episode is a must-listen for anyone buying a flipped house!Connect with Gold Key Inspection Services!Episode HighlightsThorough Inspections Are Critical: Ensure professional inspections to uncover overlooked details in flipped homes.Common Flaws in Flipped Homes: Issues include loose plumbing, improper attic work, incorrect appliance installation, ungrounded receptacles, and inadequate crawl space repairs.Beware of Superficial Fixes: Cosmetic improvements like painting might hide more severe issues.Check for Professional Work: Proper roofing, structural repairs, and ventilation are indicators of quality.Long-term Solutions: Address the causes of issues (like mold) rather than just treating symptoms to ensure longevity and safety in your investment.Timestamps(00:03) Common Issues Found in Poorly Done House Flips(02:32) Issues in Recently Renovated Homes(06:06) What to Look Out for in Home Renovations and Inspections(14:18) Electrical Issues (16:16) Solutions for Home InspectionsMentioned in this episode:Gold Key Inspecitons

This week on the Thoughts from the Crawlspace podcast, Jamie Miller, CEO of Gold Key Home Inspections, Inc., tackles misconceptions about mold in your home. Jamie talks about the inadequacies of using bleach to kill mold, particularly on porous surfaces, and why painting over mold with a stain blocker does not solve the issue. He also discusses the lack of a definitive standard for acceptable mold levels, pointing out that mold affects individuals differently based on their immune systems. Connect with Gold Key Inspection Services!Episode HighlightsBleach Ineffectiveness: Bleach is not effective for mold removal on porous surfaces as it cannot penetrate to kill the mold roots.Color Misconception: Mold color does not determine its toxicity; all visible mold should be tested and treated properly.Ineffective Painting Over Mold: Covering mold with stain blockers without proper remediation can exacerbate the issue.Eradication Myth: Complete mold eradication is unrealistic; containment and professional remediation are essential.No Uniform Mold Standard: Mold affects individuals differently, and there is no national baseline for acceptable mold levels. Testing and professional judgment are crucial.Timestamps(00:10) Busting Common Mold Myths in Homeownership(01:51) Debunking Myths About Mold and Effective Remediation Techniques(06:48) How to Test for Mold in Your Basement(07:43) Debunking Myths About Mold Removal and Prevention(11:46) Understanding Mold Levels and Health Implications(15:59) Addressing Hidden Mold After Water Events in Your Home(18:05) Catch Up on Thoughts from the Crawl Space PodcastMentioned in this episode:Gold Key Inspecitons

This week on the Thoughts from the Crawlspace podcast, Jamie Miller, CEO of Gold Key Home Inspections, Inc., speaks with Mary Dale and Shelly Sterry. Both guests share their deep-rooted connections with the Elkhart County 4H Fair. Jamie, Mary, and Shelly discuss new developments and upcoming events, painting an exciting picture of what's to come for fair-goers. From tips on budgeting for a home to describing the unique aspects of the local market, Jamie, Mary, and Shelly also discuss how to navigate the unpredictable real estate market. Connect with Gold Key Inspection Services!Episode HighlightsDeep-Rooted Traditions: Mary and Shelly reveal their long-standing involvement with the Elkhart County Four H Fair and explain its historical significance.Community Engagement: The fair draws massive community involvement, featuring over 150 events a year, inclusive of fairs, expos, and community gatherings.Real Estate Insights: Mary offers practical tips for homebuyers, emphasizing the importance of thorough budgeting and aligning purchases within one's financial comfort zone.Future Projects: Exciting developments at the fair include a significant remodel of the Elkhart County Community Center, set to start right after the fair.Volunteering Opportunities: The fair relies heavily on community volunteers, offering a variety of roles that can also serve as fundraisers for local organizations.Timestamps(00:03) Community Engagement Through the Elkhart County 4-H Fair(04:30) Elkhart County Fair's Rich History and Upcoming Renovations(09:45) Exploring the Diverse Attractions and Challenges of Organizing a Major Fair(13:01 Community Engagement and Volunteerism at the Local Fair(15:07) Navigating Real Estate Market Challenges and Buyer Advice(20:02) Year-Round Community Events at the Fairgrounds(22:15) Steps to Take Before Contacting a Real Estate AgentMentioned in this episode:Gold Key Inspecitons

This week on the Thoughts from the Crawlspace podcast, Jamie Miller, CEO of Gold Key Home Inspections, Inc., discusses the importance of sewer scans in the overall home inspection process. Jamie shares real-life examples and expert insights on why this often-overlooked service is essential for homeowners and homebuyers. He also explains the cost of these scans and the potential expenses of ignoring them, making this episode a crucial listen for anyone invested in real estate or home maintenance.Connect with Gold Key Inspection Services!Episode HighlightsImportance of Sewer Line Scans: Understanding why sewer line scans are crucial for identifying potential issues in home sewer systems.Types of Sewer Lines: Insights into different materials used in sewer lines, including cast iron, clay tile, PVC, and Orangeburg.Common Issues Found: Identifying typical problems discovered during sewer line scans, such as breaks, root clogs, and scale build-up.Cost and Value: The cost-effectiveness of sewer line scans compared to the potential high expenses of sewer line repairs.Homeowner Alerts: Tips for homeowners on when to consider getting a sewer line scan, especially for older homes or properties with trees near the sewer line.Timestamps(00:35) Importance of Sewer Line Scans(01:03) What is a Sewer Line Scan?(02:23) Types of Lines and Potential Defects(03:54) Cost and Importance of Sewer Line Scans(08:02) Houses Susceptible to Sewer Line Problems(09:10) Contact Gold Key Home InspectionsMentioned in this episode:Gold Key Inspecitons