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Client Testimonials
Had First Step Home Inspections, Inc....3 times at our new
home...Very pleased with them...Matt is very professional. I would recommend him over & over again...Comes on time Emails the report and then gives
a hard copy.....If you need an inspection done he is the one to call. Mary
& Patrick V.
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We have had two home inspections with Matt; the first was about 2 years ago,
which we did to try to identify problems that needed attention that we might not
otherwise know were there, so that we could be smart in home maintenance.
He did a thorough job and spent time at the end reviewing his findings with us.
He was very knowledgeable and friendly and his input helped us find and fix some
problems we didn't even know about. His work was thorough and his
report that he emailed and snail-mailed to us was detailed. As a mark of
his thoroughness, a couple years later when we were moving we our home was
inspected by the buyer's inspector, and this other inspector did not identify
several of the things we had not fixed; granted, none of them were major items
or we would have fixed them already, but Matt clearly "won" over the other
inspector in his attention to detail. When we then moved in the Triangle area
this summer we specifically requested Matt to inspect the home we were looking
at, and once again he was friendly, thorough, and professional. Though we
cringed at all the problems he found with the house, at least we knew what we
were getting ourselves into, and we were able to negotiate a lower price to
compensate for the needed repairs. It would be hard to go wrong with Matt!
Paul S.
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To avoid any potential conflict of interests, we decided to not use the
inspector that our realtor recommended. We contacted Matt and scheduled an
inspection a week later. Though we were anxious to get an inspection on
our house within a couple of days to assess the integrity and quality of the
home, we determine that waiting for his inspection would be worth the wait.
He seemed easy to talk to on the phone and competent for the home inspection.
Fortunately, we were very happy we did. He arrived early and identified a couple
of red flags (which the builder satisfactorily address later). He spent
well over 4 hours inspecting the property. He had a checklist that he used
to assess the various home systems from top to bottom, inside as well as outside
of the home. He correctly focused on the functionality of the house not
the cosmetic items. As first time homeowners, we were comfortable to ask
many detailed questions and received competent responses. He seemed
professional, honest and direct. After pricing several other inspectors he
seems to offer fair, comparable rates in addition to his glowing reviews.
Afterwards we received a detailed report via email as well as a written report
with photos. We also contacted him with additional questions which he
answered. In addition, he recommended some helpful advice for maintaining
various systems in our home. Overall, we were very please with the quality
and the service of First Step Home Inspections, Inc. Thanks for this thorough
inspection, we were able to bring it to the builder's attention which saved us
some money, time & work. Michael J.
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I located Matt through a service provider as a possible person to inspect the
home I plan to buy and decided to go with him after talking with the inspector
my realtor recommended and talking with Matt. Matt just seemed more
knowledgeable so I decided to go with him even though he cost a bit more than
the other inspector. He did a great job. He was very knowledgeable
and thorough. He explained many aspects of his findings during the course
of the inspection, providing explanations for how things work and what
the problems were. He arrived early, emailed his report within a day or two as
he promised, and mailed a hard copy to my home. The report was very
thorough and detailed, well-organized, and included good photos of the areas of
concern. He said the inspection would last at least three and a half hours
and it did - lasted closer to four and a half hours. He was pleasant,
courteous, and professional. He also promptly responded to a follow-up
question I sent to him via email. I was very pleased with his services and
definitely recommend him. Also, as a single female, I appreciate that he was not
condescending to me but instead was very patient in answering my
many questions. Thank you. Leslie D.
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Matt has actually performed 3 home
inspections for me since mid-January of 2011 while I was trying to find one to
purchase. As each inspection report got shorter and shorter, I think it's safe
to say I learned enough from Matt to be a better judge of the homes I tried to
buy.
The first home: I tried to buy was a foreclosure. My agent
recommended, and I agreed to use, a home inspector she works with regularly.
I visited his website and realized that I needed to consider having him do my
inspection. However, before changing course, I tried to perform the same
research for my agent's inspector. The only results from this search was a NC
inspector's license page. No website, no publicly available sample reports, no
client testimonials, etc. I also faced quite a lot of resistance when I
requested a sample report.
Needless to say, my agent wasn't thrilled when I told her to cancel
her inspector and that I’d arranged to have Matt perform the service. When I
explained my reasons (that I wasn’t able to find any publicly available website,
advertising, referrals or testimonials) for changing direction, she responded,
“Well, he’s done this long enough that he doesn’t have to go looking for work,
everyone comes to him.” This told me that I’d made the right decision – did I
really want an inspector who was a go-to-guy for realtors? Or one who seemed to
be the go-to-guy for prospective home buyers? It was a no-brainer. Matt’s
thorough inspection uncovered a lot of problems with the foreclosed home. Long
story short-er, we revised our offer by $60,000! They rejected it but it got me
out of the deal. A well-spent $425.
House #2: was better but still had a lot of costly issues. Matt
obviously gave me bad news, but the difference is that I found out BEFORE buying
the home. After his inspection, I simply sent the plumbing portion to a plumbing
contractor, sent the HVAC portion to the heating and air guy and had them
provide itemized estimates that I could use for negotiations. Again, the
homeowner wouldn’t agree to the fixes, but I was glad to have a reason to get
out of the deal.
House #3 looks like a winner : I’m supposed to close at the end of
April.
I’ve certainly appreciated Matt being on my “team” throughout this
experience. Even though his job is limited to identifying problems and pointing
you to certified professionals for this or that, I found Matt to be so thorough
in his inspection that, as a prospective homebuyer, it gave me tremendous
leverage in negotiations. Also, I like to ask a lot of questions and Matt
explained the problems he found in detail so that I could make informed
decisions when working with contractors. It’s also telling that I received many
kudos from the contractors, seller’s agents and homeowners who saw Matt’s
report. Some of them obviously didn’t like the results, but they all commented
that it was the best and most complete inspection they’d ever seen.
One of the funniest experiences, to me, was Matt’s visit for the
inspection of the first home. Matt would give us some bad news and my agent was
obviously unhappy and rolling her eyes behind his back. Then, she’d try to
gently “nudge” him in a direction he wouldn’t go and I could see the
exasperation in him. I loved it! I want them both working for me, not being cozy
and trying to please each other. For what it’s worth, my agent has a new
grudging respect for him (after 3 tries!) now and I think she likes him. We both
held our breath as he was giving his report verbally at the end of the last
one. No surprise – I highly recommend Matt and First Step Home Inspections.
Jennifer D.
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I am a licensed RE Broker and gladly recommend Matt and First Step
Home Inspections, Inc. because Matt is so thorough and meticulous. His
Inspection process is especially beneficial for First Time Home Buyers because
Matt provides education during his post-inspection on-site review with the
client. The client takes away from the experience actual tips and tools
for maintaining their home during their ownership, as well as the detailed
summary report for their records. Those intangibles provided by Matt with
his easy-going, friendly style make him a top inspector in this area.
Julie G.
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Quite astonishing actually! Matt did not leave one
"tooth pick" unturned - The typewritten report together with supporting
pictures left no ambiguity as to what needed to be repaired - Matt noticed a gas
leak - When the gas company serviceman came to repair said leak he advised it
was so minute that it would not have caused a problem passing inspection! Marian
P.
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Matt inspected our new home and explained every item in detail to me.
His report was in my email the next morning with pictures. I submitted the
report to the builder and when we had a walk through three days later, almost
all the repairs were completed. We had a great experience with Matt. He
explained how different items worked and thoroughly answered all my questions.
We will use him again in 11 months when we have our one year inspection with the
builder. Thank you! Mike S.
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Unbelievable!!! We are building a new
home and I was close to calling off the inspection as I figured that the builder
was really good, which they are... However I figured that it was just
insurance to have this done and boy am I glad I did. Matt showed up early
to the inspection, inspected the exterior of the house and then when I arrived
explained what he had found in great detail. Then when we went into the
house his attention to detail was amazing... He walked the house testing
everything and explaining his findings and the codes and practices of each item.
He provided much more detail then I would have expected and really took his time
with both the investigation and explanation. In talking to other neighbors
who have conducted home inspections they thought it was a waste. I on the
other hand think they didn't have the right inspector. I have already highly
recommended Matt to 2 of my realtor friends and upon reading the home inspection
report they were both really impressed by the detail of the report. I
would highly recommend Matt and First Step Home Inspections and will be giving
him an A+++. Thanks Matt! Chris G.
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Matt certainly earned the accolades, He was very thorough! That is exactly
why I wanted to use him. He did exactly what I wanted, checked out every
nook and cranny to see what problems were lurking. I have already started on
what I can do and have two of my go to guys looking over the list. One
specializes in anything with wood and more, the other will oversee subs to do
the plumbing and whatever the first isn't comfortable doing. He found my heat
pump was not working correctly and water in the crawl space. I am
working on fixing those issues - they are warranting my attention first and
foremost! When I get ready to buy the new house, I am definitely going to
call you! My friend Ranae says she wishes she had used you before closing
on her house. It seems the longer they are in, the more things they are
finding. Sad, but too often the case! I really try to be proactive.
Thanks again!!! Betty W.
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He inspected our 2400 sq. ft. house in about 3.5 hours. Some items were quite
simple to attend to, such as moving a card table (for adequate ventilation) and
some lumber, other things require much more effort (roof joists are not mitred
(angle-cut) properly). What impressed me most about the inspection was that it
uncovered a great many things that have been wrong since the house was built -
things I wish my pre-purchase inspector had uncovered! He emailed the report to
us in the wee hours of the morning following the inspection and put a hard copy
in the mail. My Mother is a retired English teacher and I have only 2 minor
faults with the writing on the report - excellent for 14 pages! I only mention
that because it speaks to his education, care in preparation of the report,
attention to details, and ability to communicate effectively. Jim S.
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It went very well. I was pleased with the inspection. He showed
up early and went over the findings with us step by step. He was professional
and courteous. Robin S.
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Matt was extremely responsive. He delivered what he said he would. He did it on
time and in great, invaluable detail. Allen M.
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Does it make sense to spend nearly $400 to inspect a new home before the
builder's warranty expires? You bet it does! First Step Home Inspections saved
me a fortune and helped assure my family's safety. Builders and government
inspectors cannot take time for the exhaustive evaluation that a licensed home
inspector can provide, and Matt McClymonds represents the very best in that
industry. He's not a nit picker, but nothing escapes his attention. If I had let
the builder's warranty expire and then in the future had to pay for the
discrepancies that First Step Home Inspections found, it would have cost perhaps
$1,000, But that's not really the whole story, because some of the deficiencies
(gaps in roof terminations where animals could crawl in and gnaw on electrical
wires, or water can penetrate; electrical flaws that could cause a fire or cause
one to escalate more rapidly) had the potential to be very costly or even
catastrophic. I can't imagine a better investment of $385. Larry B.
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Matt was on time, pleasant, informative, and he sent an electronic version of
the complete report with photos to me in less than 24 hours! I am preparing to
sell my home and wanted the inspection first, so I could make repairs before
putting the house on the market. Matt found issues that were present prior to my
buying the house and were just missed by my original inspector. He actually
climbed onto the roof for a close inspection instead of using binoculars to
inspect as I have seen done. I'm really pleased I had this done BEFORE putting a
For Sale sign in my front yard. I will feel confident after making these repairs
that I am selling the best possible house. At the time of this report, I have
not needed to contact again, but he does say that he is available as a
resource for any questions I may have as I begin on the repairs. Gayle S.
________________
He was a great help. He inspected the home then sat down with us. He gave
us the pictures and told us what to make the builder fix so that it would be up
to the required codes. He charged us per square foot of our home so your price
may vary. We found him to be very knowledgeable in his work. PJ. B.
________________
We were very satisfied with the work that he did. He was very thorough as he
wrote a bound book, took pictures and made a to do list. He explained everything
in detail to us. I really can't remember how much he charged me for that but it
was quite reasonable. This man saved me a lot of money. Based on his
evaluation, I was able to back out of the purchase since the repairs would have
been so high. He was able to give me a list of the problems that I took to a
handyman for price estimates. Elisabeth C.
________________
He was great. He was polite did a great job and I would recommend him to
others. We will use him again for the final inspection. We were very pleased.
Julio R.
_________________
It went very well from the first phone contact to the receipt of the
bound report. Connie and Matt McClymonds were responsive, courteous, and
professional in every way. Connie responded to my phone messages within a very
short period of time. They were able to provide me with an appointment date and
time that was convenient for me. Matt arrived on time and ready to go. He was
efficient, methodical, and took copious thorough notes. He patiently answered
all my questions as well as provided great advice. He provided me the inspection
report electronically that evening and a printed bound copy in the mail within
two days. His findings were consistent with our observation. Gregory C.
_________________
They use knowledge, performance, plus ability to explain all aspects of
the inspection so you can understand the process. The bottom line was I saved at
least $15,000.00 (yes, fifteen thousand) of future expenses. I only thought the
home needed interior painting and some new kitchen appliances. was totally blown
away by what was found. Roof leaks, mold and mildew damage were found. An
addition was illegally built and violates numerous code requirements, heating
and air conditioning that did not function completely, and concrete floors that
have settled 2-3 inches. I could go on! Many, many, thanks to First Step Home
Inspections! They are prompt, courteous, and thorough! Joey Y.
_________________
The service was top-notch. I was on a tight schedule, having
procrastinated in getting an inspection. I called and immediately spoke with
Matt's wife who answered my questions and was very friendly! It certainly help
me feel more confident in the quality I would receive. I wasn't at all
disappointed! Matt showed up ten minutes early and proceeded to spend nearly
four hours inspecting my home with me two steps behind. He taught me as we went
along and was more than willing to answer all of my questions. His report showed
up the same evening, as promised. Having had multiple homes inspected by
inspectors looking to get done quickly, I can say Matt was the first to really
take the time to make sure my home was safe and made recommendations to keep it
in top shape for years to come. This was definitely a worthwhile investment!
Brian S.
__________________
Matt spent a lot of time with us and did a thorough inspection. He gave
us a detailed report that spelled out the issues the builder needed to address.
Overall he did a great job. Carrie C.
_________________
I was very impressed with his ability, and will definitely call on his
services again in the future. It was definitely worth the cost of the
inspection. Connie G.
_________________
The gentleman who came out was very knowledgeable and performed a very
detailed inspection. My wife and I received all of the findings in a nice
booklet that included pictures taken from a digital camera and explanations
wrote in plain English. We were able to use the information in the purchasing of
the home. The homeowners fixed all major items on the list, which was approx.
$7000 worth of work. Since we have bought our house, about a year ago, we have
not found any other problems. Jonathan S.
_________________
I just want you to know that of all the house inspections I have had (I've had a
few) I feel like I got my money's worth with you. Thank you. Aurelia C.
_________________
Thank you for the photos and for the great work you did doing our home
inspection. My husband came home raving about you! I apologize for not sending
the checkbook with him but I will have a check in the mail to you first thing
Monday morning! Thanks again! Jennifer D.
________________
Thank you for coming out on such short notice. We were extremely pleased with
the thorough job you did on the first house, the way you explained things to us,
and your amazing professionalism! On items we'd never had experience with
you were great about taking an extra minute to help us understand. I
really wanted John to be there when you were doing this second inspection.
Your insights helped us feel much more informed about the house and confident
about what we were getting into. Even though the home owner was there this
time you showed the same integrity we'd seen before and were just as thorough.
The hard copy report you sent to us was immaculate, the pictures captured the
trouble spots, and this detail was instrumental in helping us make our decision.
I would recommend you to anyone and we will surely ask your assistance again if
buying a house in the area. Thanks, Kathryn C.
_________________
Thank you very much for the Home Inspection summary and photos. I was able to
unzip and view the .pdf file without a problem. The photos and notes are super!
Sincerely, Gary G.
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Thank you for your thorough, detailed, and prompt review. Best regards,
Jeff F.
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Just a quick note to thank you for the quick turnaround on the home
inspection report, it looks great. Also, Thank you for handling the property
inspections with such professionalism. Your report gave us a good picture of
what needs attention and led the home seller to give us a $750 allowance toward
the repairs through escrow. Thanks again, Dan S.
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Thanks for your help. I decided not to buy the house after all.
I have rented an apartment for the time being. I’d rather err on the side
of being over cautious, and I have to go with what my instinct is telling me. I
wanted to say that after seeing the inspection report from my house and the one
done on my son’s house, your presentation was the most professionally done and
quite impressive. There wasn’t anything wrong with the other reports, they were
just a little harder to read and didn’t make nearly as nice a presentation.
Again, thanks for your efforts in helping me make the most informed decision.
Faye S.
__________________
Thank you so much for all of your help and honesty this weekend. You really did
a great job and we really appreciate it. We look forward to working with you
again in the future. Regards, Rebekah and Ryan
__________________
I appreciate you taking the time to point out things to me & explain them. you
gave excellent service. If friends need a home inspector I will recommend you
highly. Thank you! Mary S.
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Many thanks. I have to commend you for such fine work on putting together
such a comprehensive and useful report, also in getting me the report in a
timely manner. Marnelle A.
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I wanted to thank you for the excellent inspection and all the time you spent
with us. I couldn't asked for a better experience. Look forward to working with
you again. Thanks, Neal
___________________
Thanks for the quick turnaround on the inspection. I enjoyed talking with
you and learning the essentials about my new home. I look forward to
recommending you to anyone who may need your services in the future. Thanks, Wes
____________________
Thank you for the efficient inspection and timely communication. Much
appreciated. Paula B.
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First Step Home Inspections Inc.
6229 Tryon Road, Cary, NC 27518
Ph: 919-858-9930
FSHInc21@gmail.com
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