your path to a bright future. - national property inspections · your path to a bright future. ......

No matter what your background or experience, NPI equips

you with the knowledge, power and confidence to get your

business up and running.

Your path to a bright future.

Your path to a bright future.

NPI is an international market leader with more than 25 years of experience in guiding its franchisees toward building successful property inspection businesses. And, at NPI, our franchisees never feel abandoned: You’ll work with a marketing coach who will provide ongoing support, and we’re available seven days a week to answer any inspection questions you may encounter on the job. We understand that we’re only successful if you are successful, so we work hand in hand with our franchisees to help them become as successful as possible. That’s the NPI difference.

No matter what your background or experience, NPI equips you with the knowledge, power and confidence to get your own inspection business up and running. Consider us your professional career compass: It is our job to point the way to your success. It is our pledge to lead the way on your journey.

We’ll Help You Build Your Business Your Way

As a group, NPI franchisees can offer more than 20 types of inspections, including residential, commercial, field service and builder’s warranty inspections.

You’ve Found the Path to Success

If you’re in the woods, a compass will help you find the path to where you need to go.

Take a look at your career compass. Which direction leads to success?

If you have an entrepreneurial spirit and enjoy working for yourself, then National Property

Inspections* could be your path to success.

*We operate as Global Property Inspections in Canada.

The NPI Franchise Package and Startup

NPI provides a comprehensive package of the following:

• Business and inspection training and support

• Classroom training

• One week of practical field training with a mentor

• Proprietary inspection and tracking software

• Professionally managed, custom website

• Database of potential clients

• Tools and computer system

• Ongoing support

NPI offers franchisees the following opportunities:

• Build a business for yourself, but never alone.

• Build a well-rounded service business that is nonseasonal and recession-resistant.

• Build a business in which you can create value that can be sold.

You’ll build a business that you can grow and operate to meet your needs, and you’ll run it your way:

• Work alone.

• Work with your spouse or partner.

• Work from home or a rented office.

• Enjoy a flexible work schedule.

No matter what your background or experience,

NPI equips you with the knowledge, power and

confidence to get your business up and running.

Commercial inspections are also an important part of what you’ll do as an NPI franchisee. We were the first industry franchise to emphasize commercial property inspections, and this part of the business has greatly benefited our franchisees by expanding the portfolio of services they offer.

“Investors, banks, insurance companies and various corporations are increasingly requiring inspections,” said Bill Erickson, executive vice president at NPI. “We train our franchisees how to perform commercial inspections and how to price and solicit these inspections.”

NPI’s diversified business plan is a time-tested business model that has endured even economic recessions for more than 25 years. Another reason to choose NPI: Our 2014 franchisee satisfaction survey conducted by Franchise Business Review showed a franchisee overall satisfaction rating of nearly 80 percent.

The following are just some of the services you can provide in our business model:• Residential inspections for homebuyers

• Commercial inspections for investors, insurance companies and mortgage companies

• Construction draw inspections for banks

• Employee relocation inspections

• Property assessments for real estate investment trusts (REITs)

• Maintenance inspections for property managers

• Builder warranty inspections

• Asset inspection and verification for bank trust departments

• Field service and other specialty inspections

Work alone or as a team. However you decide to build your business, NPI’s staff will be there to get you started quickly and support you along the way.

Why NPI?

Most of NPI’s competitors sell home inspection franchises. The NPI franchise is

different. It’s a diversified business model. Although home inspections are an

important part of what we do, they are only one aspect.

“We train our franchisees

how to perform commercial

inspections and how

to price and solicit

these inspections.”

– Bill Erickson, Executive Vice President,

National Property Inspections

NPI’s national accounts department refers thousands of inspections to franchisees as a group, giving them access to clients they may not otherwise reach.

Success With National Accounts

NPI franchisees benefit directly and indirectly from our national accounts. Although we cannot promise a specific volume of inspections, we have referred thousands of inspections from our national accounts to our franchisees. Sometimes investors, property managers and the like will find your website and contact you; other times, larger clients that need multiple inspections in multiple locations prefer to use our central coordination service:

• We provide a central point of contact.

• The client explains and defines the scope of the work only once.

• We offer a consistent reporting format.

• We offer centralized and uniform billing.

• The client can work with a long-established company.

• We send any inspections in your area to you.

The national accounts market segment simply isn’t available to most independent inspectors who lack the training and support to compete at national level. Our national accounts department works hard to solicit and service this business, benefiting all of our franchisees.

Your ability to sell, market, manage your time and manage your business is key to your success. NPI’s proven, step-by-step marketing plan and business training will put you on the path to success, helping you to learn who your clients are, where to find them and how to approach them. Just as importantly, your marketing coach will provide ongoing support for you and your business.

NPI’s dedicated marketing team has the experience to instruct and coach you every step of the way. We also provide you with a vast library of marketing materials and implementation instructions for their use.

Your Professional NPI Website

A professional website adds credibility, function and a way for potential clients to learn about your services. NPI provides you with a professional, individualized and fully functional website that works for you continuously – and you can customize it to your needs.

NPI will instruct you on how organic and NPI-paid ad traffic is driven to your website. In addition, countless technical bulletins are located in the back end of your website for use by you or your clients. You also will be able to automatically forward to your contacts the monthly NPI newsletter, personalized under your name and signature.

Gain Exposure With Social Media

Marketing changes with the times, and NPI is in tune with the trends in marketing. In addition to our websites, we continually monitor and explore the ever-changing world of social media. Various social media, including Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn can be used to communicate with your contacts and potential clients to grow your business.

Marketing and Business

NPI’s professional marketing team

is available to help you with all of

your marketing needs, including

printed materials, your website

and social media.

NPI Marketing Advantages

• The company’s long history and nationwide reach

• Established and ongoing national accounts

• Professional and proven websites

• Federally protected trade name

• Professional, proprietary inspection software

• On-site report option

• Training for sales and marketing staff

• Free six-month limited warranty for your clients

• Satisfaction guarantee for your clients

You’ll love how easy it is to use the newest version of NPI’s unique, professional inspection software, Inform™.

NPI’s Inspection Report Software

Most independent property inspectors use generic inspection software. But NPI franchisees use our unique and proprietary Inform™ inspection reporting and tracking software, which NPI has spent years developing and keeping updated. With Inform™, you’ll have the ability to produce professional and highly prized inspection reports, including the following:

• Home inspection reports

• Various commercial inspection reports

• Field service and specialty inspection reports

The following are some of the specialized features of Inform™:

• Checklist format, which guides you through the inspection

• List of thousands of preloaded and peer-reviewed inspector comments for better and quicker report writing

• Embedded photos to clarify and illustrate conditions found

• Tracking software – who referred inspections to you, how many inspections they referred, marketing return on investment (ROI)

NPI has spent years and hundreds of thousands of dollars

developing Inform™, our proprietary inspection reporting and

tracking software.

Thermographic imaging is just one of the additional services NPI inspectors might offer.

The path to your future begins at NPI’s two-week Business, Technology and Inspection Training Academy in Omaha, Neb. The training academy meets or exceeds state standards for technical training. It also includes the marketing, business and operational training necessary to build a successful inspection business, covering topics such as the following:

• Building structures and components

• Mechanical systems

• Exterior surfaces

• Inspection standards and ethics

• Report writing

• Use of tools

• Computer and software training

• Operating an inspection business

• Growing an inspection business

Unlike most inspection training available today, NPI’s training and support doesn’t end when you return home from classroom training. We provide ongoing education and support to all of our franchisees so their skills are current and stay sharp.

In addition, NPI can help train your sales staff and inspectors to help protect your business and the NPI brand.

We’ll Start You on the Right Path

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a construction background to become a property inspector?

No. Our inspectors come from a variety of backgrounds, with varied skill sets. Many have no related experience and have built successful inspection businesses with our help. With the right aptitude and desire to learn, you can learn to perform a variety of inspections, as well as the business side of owning an NPI franchise.

What is the term of the franchise agreement and how do I renew it?

At the end of the original 10-year term, as long as you are in good standing, you may renew for another term with no renewal fee. NPI has franchise owners who have been with us 10, 15, 20 years or longer.

Will I get my own territory to operate my NPI franchise?

Yes. Your NPI franchise territory is exclusive and protected. As long as you remain an NPI franchisee, the franchise territory is yours exclusively.

When is the best time to enter this business?

The right business model, implemented the right way can be started at any time. An NPI franchise is nonseasonal and recession-resistant.

Can I get a franchise disclosure document from NPI?

Yes. Contact us to request our Franchise disclosure document (FDD).

Can I sell my franchise?

Built the right way, this type of service business builds value and can be sold. The buyer must be approved by NPI and will attend NPI’s training academy in Omaha, Neb.

NPI’s franchisees come from a wide range of backgrounds. A construction background is not necessary.

When you are ready to reserve your territory, complete and return the Next Step Form included with this packet. You can also complete the form online by clicking the “Next Step” link in one of our emails to you.

We encourage you to visit Omaha to meet our staff, have your questions answered and see our business firsthand. We will even reimburse you for part of your trip.

If you have questions, please contact Julie Erickson, director of franchise sales, at [email protected] or 1.800.333.9807, ext. 24.

Start Your Journey Take the Next Step on Your Path to Success

Questions? Contact Julie Erickson at [email protected] or 1.800.333.9807, ext. 24

From the President

Building a successful business is not easy… but at NPI, we make it easier. If you follow our business plan, use the assistance we offer, and work with the marketing/business coach we provide, then you will be on the path to becoming a successful NPI franchise owner.

At NPI, we help you because it’s our job. You see, most of our income comes from royalties. So, when you succeed, we succeed. That is the way it should be.

We’re especially proud of the results of a recent survey of our franchisees conducted by Franchise Business Review. The survey revealed an overall franchisee satisfaction rating of nearly 80 percent. In addition, 92 percent of our franchisees rated us highly in the Core Values category, which included trust, respect, honesty and integrity. See the insert in this packet for more information about our 2014 survey.

I hope your area is available and that you decide to join us. I invite you to call, email or visit the NPI corporate headquarters. We’ll answer any questions you have, let you see things firsthand or just get acquainted.

Sincerely,Roland Bates

PresidentNational Property Inspections, Inc.

At NPI, we help you on the path to building your

own business. That’s our job. When you succeed,

we succeed.

9375 Burt Street, Suite 201 • Omaha, NE 681141-800-333-9807, ext 10

www.npiweb.comwww.npifranchise.com

About National Property InspectionsFor more than 25 years, National Property Inspections, Inc., has helped hardworking, ambitious people run successful, profitable property inspection businesses. We operate as National Property Inspections in the United States and as Global Property Inspections in Canada.

The NPI training program equips new franchisees with everything they need to know to perform a quality inspection, use the tools of the trade, maximize their sales and marketing strategies, and learn how to operate an independently owned and operated franchise business.

Become a part of NPI with access to national accounts, referrals, inside information and other perks available only to our franchise owners. For more information, or to

receive an NPI franchise information packet, visit www.npifranchise.com.

NPI provides you with the following:

General

• Protected territory

• Nationalaccountreferralandfieldserviceaccountdirectory

• Website design, hosting, maintenance, intranet and emailpromotion materials

• NPI MarketLaunch Program automated andintegrated marketing

• NPI’s proven marketing plan and operational manuals

• Proven direct mail programs

• Ongoing support for inspections, marketing andtechnical questions

• NPI Annual Conference*

Training

• 14-day comprehensive training at corporate headquartersin Omaha, Nebraska

• Upto80hoursof fieldtrainingone-on-onewithan inspector

• Technical reference books and class materials

• Guidance and support for obtaining state licensure

• Training in how to use your website, social mediamarketing and other methods to “get found”

Technology

• Tablet notebook PC with warranty

• Portable printer

• Digital camera

• NPI Inform™ inspection software

• Microsoft®Office™

Tools

• Moisture meter

• Gas detector

• Circuit tester and circuit tracker

• Voltage sensor and voltage tester

• Mini infrared thermometer and inspection mirror

• Digital thermometers

• Binocularsandflashlight

• Custom tool bag and portfolio

See our franchise disclosure document (FDD) for a complete listof inspection tools and gear included in the franchise package.

National Accounts Department

• An entire team devoted to garnering nationalcommercial accounts

• Ongoing inspections across the United States and Canada

• Inspection work is assigned to the nearest franchise owner

Marketing Materials

• NPI MarketLaunch Program automated andintegrated marketing

• Assorted brochures

• Acrylic brochure and business card holders

• Custom business cards, notepads, letterhead, envelopesand other marketing supplies

• Access to our automated HTML marketing library

• Full-time marketing coach for ongoing support

• Custom website and website support

• Professional website customized to your business

• Website support from our marketing team

At National Property Inspections, we’re a successful company with a long history, and we think it’s

important to start you off with what you need. Your franchise fee buys you a comprehensive startup

package that includes almost everything you’ll need to get your business up and running quickly. If you

compare NPI with other franchisors, make sure to ask the others what else you’ll need to start your

business that is not included in the franchise fee.

*Registration fee applies

NPI’s Comprehensive Quick-start Package

See the marketing insert in this packet for more information

Quick.start.v.2016.v.1.indd 1 5/17/16 1:48 PM

NPI National Accounts

The NPI corporate office has established ongoing relationships with national companies that need inspections from coast to coast, and we work hard to keep adding to the list of these companies. These are real estate investment companies, national retail chains, national banks and other national corporations and real estate brokerage firms that have ongoing inspection needs at multiple locations. NPI provides a central coordination service for such clients and sends the inspection work to the nearest NPI franchisees.

Full-time Marketing Coach

As a franchise owner, you will work with a marketing coach and learn the details of NPI’s proven, step-by-step marketing plan. You’ll be trained on all aspects of the plan, including how to implement the plan in your local marketplace. You’ll learn who your clients are, where to find them and how to approach them. The NPI marketing coach will work closely with you to follow the plan and help you grow your business.

NPI MarketLaunch

The NPI MarketLaunch Program provides a full suite of marketing tools to get your business started on the right path. Our automated and integrated marketing tools include the following:

• Personalized newsletters, HTML fliers and marketing collateral

• PowerPoint presentations

• Assigned email and signature setup

• Local directory launch

• Contact acquisition strategy

• Social promotion strategy

• Managed email scheduling and delivery

• Review capture and management

• Quarterly contests

Local Referral Marketing

Your marketing training will include tips for how to effectively build a local network of referral sources of real estate professionals. This includes Realtors and lenders who need your services and who commonly refer their customers to inspectors. By aligning yourself with NPI, you gain immediate credibility with local referral sources. They’ll be able to refer clients to you with confidence.

National Advertising

NPI’s corporate office conducts national sales campaigns, including Internet advertising, at no cost to NPI franchise owners. The goal is to drive additional clients to our local franchisees. This puts into action our philosophy that “we are only successful when our franchise owners are successful.” To that end, NPI’s corporate office does everything possible to drive additional business to our franchise owners.

Innovative Web Tools

Your website will be the public face of your inspection business. It adds credibility, function and a way for potential clients to learn about your services. NPI provides you with a professional, individualized and fully functional website that works for you continuously – and you can customize it to your needs. In addition, NPI will instruct you on how organic and NPI-paid ad traffic is driven to your website.

NPI is continually developing new website solutions based on current market research and trends. We provide the following innovative tools:

• Easy-to-update business website

• Ratings and review tools for your business

• Lead capture systems

• One-click customized email marketing

• Rich Web-based marketing library

Social Media Marketing

NPI makes sure to keep up with the trends in marketing, and one of these current trends is social media marketing. We continually monitor and explore the ever-changing world of social media, and we’ll teach you how to leverage various social media outlets – including Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn – to promote your business.

Turn Plans Into Action With Marketing Training

As a National Property Inspections franchisee, you’ll market your business locally to win clients. You’ll do much of your

marketing through networking, but you’ll also need to learn about tactics such as advertising, website maintenance,

and social media marketing and email marketing with our automated NPI MarketLaunch Program. NPI is available to

help you with marketing every step of the way.

Marketing.v.2016.v.1.indd 1 5/17/16 2:24 PM

What would you say to someone who was thinking about entering property inspection as an independent versus as a franchisee?

Ron Schenck: “Good luck! Although I know it can be done, it is definitely easier having people behind you for support.”

Wayne Merrill: “A franchise gives an inspector a better chance of success because the business plan is proven. All the tools are included, and the training is all-inclusive. Success can be attained quickly because all the different aspects of the business have been tried and tested. The NPI franchise gave me instant validity and helped me acquire a customer base very quickly. Being able to tell Realtors and prospective clients that I am a part of a national company which has been in business since 1987, really put me on the fast track. In any business, the quicker the customer base is achieved, the greater chance of success.”

Jim Giuffre: “Starting a business as a property inspector (not just a home inspector) by yourself would be too costly and time consuming, and you would not have NPI’s continued support and information for growth.”

What made you decide to act on starting your own business?

Ron Schenck: “I was tired of the same old grind.”

Wayne Merrill “I have been an independent businessman most of my life. I enjoy the challenge of working hard to

ensure success, even though it can be stressful at times. I also like that I can be in control of my financial rewards.”

Jim Giuffre: “My wife and I are very hard workers, and at 46 years of age, we were looking to move out of New York to North Carolina. This meant we would be leaving well-paying careers and starting all over in a new career. This was a great opportunity to start working for ourselves and build a business for our future.”

What were you doing before you decided to start an NPI franchise?

Ron Schenck: “I was a pipe layer and heavy machinery operator doing underground utility work for a local contractor.”

Wayne Merrill: “I owned and operated a successful RV and trailer dealership.”

Jim Giuffre: “My past career was an electrician in New York for 27 years in residential, commercial and industrial buildings. Before that, I was a heavy equipment engineer in the U.S. Army.”

What other franchises did you consider before deciding on property inspection and NPI?

Ron Schenck: “None but strongly considered going independent.”

Wayne Merrill: “I seriously considered a tool franchise and almost purchased it. However, I was made to feel like an employee instead of a business owner. They wanted all the control. In contrast, NPI offered a proven plan that allowed me to run my business my way.”

Jim Giuffre: “I looked at three other franchise companies.”

Franchise or Independent?

You’ve been looking at franchises. You may also have encountered independent training

organizations. We talked to three of our franchise owners, and this is what they had to say

about choosing a franchise over going into business independently.

Wayne Merrill Jim Giuffre Ron Schenck

What made you choose a franchise over going into business independently?

Ron Schenck: “I had previously owned and independent inspection company. I did not feel comfortable being alone in the business. Marketing? What is marketing? I did not have a clue where to start.”

Wayne Merrill: “I wanted a proven business model. I did not want to spend a lot of time creating all the procedures and marketing tools that were required. I also wanted a team of professionals to help me when I needed it. Starting a new business is stressful and can be financially devastating if one does not fully understand the business. Purchasing the NPI franchise was the best decision for me, as I was able to start making an income quickly.”

Jim Giuffre: “Becoming a property inspector is more than just inspecting. … The support of owning a franchise and, more important, an NPI franchise, is of utmost importance to us as business owners and as a inspector. Why reinvent the wheel? My competitors in North Carolina are individual inspectors, and their businesses are not growing like ours is, and I know it is because they are ‘winging it’ with no plan.”

How important is it to you to have a network of other franchisees and support staff to call upon as “friends or family”?

Ron Schenck: “Very important. I have called John Fast in Spokane I don’t know how many times. Having him in the same time zone really helps. If I’m doing an inspection after hours I know I can always call him with any questions.”

Wayne Merrill: “To me, the network of other franchisees and support staff are crucial to the success in this business. Having a technical support team available has been such a confidence builder for me. If I ever have questions, I know that there is always someone at NPI who will have answers. I have been the most successful in business when I have had mentors to help me along the way. Mentors are extremely important to the success of any business.”

Jim Giuffre: “This is priceless. … When we want to talk to other inspectors, we can call any NPI franchisee and discuss ideas, problems and marketing or ask about their experience in working with particular big accounts they have worked with. It is a pool of friends, and we all want to help each other succeed. Also, my staff speaks to the franchisees and franchise home office with consistency.”

Unlimited, seven-days-a-week technical support. Call us as often as you like. No matter which day of the week you are performing inspections, simply call the NPI technical support staff and get an answer to your question. You can deliver an accurate inspection report to your client the same day.

Full-time marketing department. You have access to a variety of no-cost and low-cost professional marketing materials and brochures to promote your image and your business. We even offer a full-time marketing coach. You will also participate in the NPI MarketLaunch program for the first 12 months you are in business (monthly fee applies).

NPI’s national reputation. In business since 1987, NPI has a strong national presence and reputation. This helps bring you national account business from real estate investors, lenders, insurance companies and other organizations that look for local inspectors affiliated with NPI to perform their long- distance inspection requirements for both commercial and residential projects.

National accounts department. Although we can make no guarantees for your territory, our national accounts department refers hundreds of commercial inspections to NPI franchise owners. This is a tremendous advantage over individuals working independently.

Proven marketing and business plans. As a franchisor, NPI has developed, tested and continuously refined marketing and business plans that are working for more than 200 existing franchises. Our success is entirely dependent on your success, so we only teach you marketing and business strategies that are proven winners. We constantly adjust the plan for market conditions and help you stay ahead of the competition.

Professional website. Your NPI websites at www.npiweb.com and www.npicommercial.com attract customers that you wouldn’t get otherwise. National companies regularly access our website because they know from past experience that they can find a reliable NPI inspector to get the job done for them.

You Can Do a Lot Better Than an Independent Training AgencyWith an NPI franchise, you benefit in ways the independent training agencies can’t match:

2015 National Property Inspections & Global Property Inspections Annual Conference

“The annual conference is a MUST if you plan to improve or grow your business,”

said Heather Gould, NPI franchise owner, St. Charles, Missouri. “Whether you

are a new or seasoned franchise owner, the annual conference is the best

investment in your business you will ever make! Can’t wait until next year!”

The 2015 NPI/GPI Annual Conference was packed with opportunities for NPI and GPI franchise owners, their spouses and their employees. From technical training and marketing to special new business breakout sessions, attendees had a full schedule during the two days of the conference.

The conference was held Nov. 13 and 14 at the DoubleTree Hotel in beautiful downtown Omaha.

“I go to the conference every year to spend time with my NPI/GPI family, learn how to grow my business, learn new marketing techniques, and to learn from the best,” said Todd Newhook, GPI franchise owner, Markham, Ontario. “This was the best conference to date for me, and I am pumped for 2016.”

Forty-three top-performing franchise owners received awards and recognition at the awards banquet for their successes throughout the past year. In addition, four franchise owners were inducted into the NPI Hall of Fame, and franchise owner Bob McDonough was honored as NPI/GPI Franchise of the Year. “We always want to pay special recognition to our top-performing franchisees, and this year we had many,” said Roland Bates, president of National Property Inspections, Inc.

North America’s Premier Inspection Service

NPI Hub and GPI Hub Automate Your Email Marketing

Luke Armstrong from RenMind participated in a session to introduce NPI Hub and GPI Hub – marketing automation tools available to all franchise owners and paid for by National Property Inspections, Inc. Included in the Hub solutions is an email marketing system that allows you to manage your contacts, schedule and send emails to your entire contact list.

New for 2015: Business Breakout Sessions

This year, National Property Inspections, Inc., added three breakout sessions to the annual conference schedule to meet specific needs of NPI and GPI franchise owners. Led by NPI/GPI president Roland Bates, the following sessions were added:

• Operating Your Franchise: Growing to the Next Level

• Hiring Your First Employees

• Preparing to Retire or Sell Your Franchise

Conducted in a round-table setting with workbooks provided to everyone who attended, these sessions were hugely successful. Franchise owners had the opportunity to ask questions; share ideas, strategies and best practices; and find out the information they need for the next phase of their businesses.

“We returned to the annual conference this year after skipping a few years due to various reasons,” said Carrie Trotter, NPI franchise owner, Troy, Ohio. “One of the main reasons we returned were the new business sessions offered this year. We are in the midst of some growing pains and needed some new perspective and ideas from other franchisees. The business sessions on hiring and growing your business gave us some great ideas. It was great to see old friends and make some new ones!”

Another Successful Annual Conference

This year, 43 franchise owners were honored during the awards banquet event. In addition, four franchise owners were inducted into the NPI/GPI Hall of Fame. This semi-formal dinner and awards ceremony is always a favorite part of the annual conference event. It’s a chance for franchise owners’ hard work to be recognized by National Property Inspections, Inc., as well as by the award winners’ peers.

“We have outstanding franchisees, and these awards are our way of recognizing our top performers in various markets,” said Roland Bates, president of National Property Inspections, Inc. “Our franchisees did more business collectively this year than any year in the past. They have worked extremely hard to build their businesses, and every award winner is most deserving of their award.

2015 NPI/GPI Hall of Fame inductees.

2015.conference.v.1.indd 1-2 12/3/15 3:32 PM

Don Harvey from Fireplace Stone & Patio held a session to address clearances, waterproofing, settling and levels of inspection for various types of fireplaces. He explained the components that make a fire-place and the proper parts needed to make it operate correctly.

Marketing Sessions Inspired Franchise Owners and Marketers

NPI franchise owner/inspector Sean Green, Flower Mound, Texas, explained how property inspectors have to wear a lot of hats and often become order takers on the phone. He offered expert tips and a sample transcript to help attendees improve their phone skills and increase their business. Green also discussed the NPI builder’s warranty program and how he has made it successful for his business.

Marketing and Business Round Tables: An Opportunity to Learn From Each Other

Once again, the home office marketing team set up a round-table discussion session, where groups of franchise owners and their employees had the opportunity to talk about what they do to market their businesses.

More franchise owners are using social media to promote their businesses, especially Facebook. Those who have tried boosting posts on Facebook have had good success, and the NPI/GPI Online Social Media Calendar has helped many franchisees get started with their social media efforts.

Continuing education was a major topic at the round tables. Many NPI and GPI franchise owners have had great success from CE classes and have won agent referrals as a result. The groups said that agents are very receptive to CE classes and they are a captive audience. Many franchise owners are planning to start holding education classes for new agents and for first-time home buyers.

Call centers was another hot topic during the marketing sessions. More and more franchise owners are realizing that they lose business when they can’t answer their phones. Using a call center can solve this problem and help you book more inspections.

Keynote Speaker Van Deeb Inspires Conference Attendees

Van Deeb, an award winning Realtor, broker, motivational speaker and author, was the keynote speaker at the 2015 NPI/GPI Annual Conference. His presentation captivated the entire room, and for the rest of the conference, attendees repeatedly said how inspired they were by Deeb.

Deeb focused on five key points:

1. Branding yourself as an expert. Deeb discussed ways that NPI and GPI franchise owners can establish themselves as a home inspection expert with agents, clients, the local media and the community.

2. Working with Realtors. Deeb discussed many things that franchise owners can do to grow their businesses and that cost no money.

3. Get involved with your community. “People want to do business with someone who is compassionate and gives back to the community,” Deeb said. He encouraged franchise owners to volunteer, donate to charities and participate in fundraisers – these can be win/win situations for your community and your business.

4. Make and keep clients for life. Deeb encouraged franchise owners to differentiate their businesses with warranties, add-on services and outstanding customer service. Tell your agents and clients, “No one is going to work harder than NPI or GPI to keep your business.”

5. Make new connections with agents and keep in contact with past customers. Deeb discussed strategies for how to connect with agents – especially the top-selling agents who are the most difficult to get in touch with.

NPI/GPI Brings Valuable Technical Speakers to the Annual Conference

Again this year, NPI/GPI brought great speakers from outside the company to the annual conference.

Pat O’Neal, a master plumber and director of technical services at Studor, Inc., in Collierville, Tennessee, held a session discussing how the Studor Air Admittance Valve (AAV) provides an alternative way to vent a plumbing system.

Dave McCann, president of McCann Contracting, Inc., in Bellevue, Nebraska, held a session to build upon the basic refrigeration circuit taught at NPI/GPI. McCann’s session applied the fundamentals of air conditioning and refrigeration in residential and commercial buildings and discussed heat recovery ventilators (HRVs), how air-to-air heat exchangers work and how to inspect them.

Jason Lemers, area sales manager at Boral Stone Products highlighted the abundant design options available in stone veneer masonry, proper installation detailing, and designing buildings using the latest building energy codes and incorporating continuous insulation.

Van Deeb

From the top: NPI/GPI 2015 President’s Club Award

winners. NPI/GPI 2015 Franchise of the Year.

2015 NPI/GPI Pinnacle Award winners.

The business and marketing round-table

session gave franchisees the chance to

share ideas.



“The annual conference is a MUST if you plan to improve or grow your business,”

said Heather Gould, NPI franchise owner, St. Charles, Missouri. “Whether you

are a new or seasoned franchise owner, the annual conference is the best

investment in your business you will ever make! Can’t wait until next year!”

The 2015 NPI/GPI Annual Conference was packed with opportunities for NPI and GPI franchise owners, their spouses and their employees. From technical training and marketing to special new business breakout sessions, attendees had a full schedule during the two days of the conference.

The conference was held Nov. 13 and 14 at the DoubleTree Hotel in beautiful downtown Omaha.

“I go to the conference every year to spend time with my NPI/GPI family, learn how to grow my business, learn new marketing techniques, and to learn from the best,” said Todd Newhook, GPI franchise owner, Markham, Ontario. “This was the best conference to date for me, and I am pumped for 2016.”

Forty-three top-performing franchise owners received awards and recognition at the awards banquet for their successes throughout the past year. In addition, four franchise owners were inducted into the NPI Hall of Fame, and franchise owner Bob McDonough was honored as NPI/GPI Franchise of the Year. “We always want to pay special recognition to our top-performing franchisees, and this year we had many,” said Roland Bates, president of National Property Inspections, Inc.

North America’s Premier Inspection Service

NPI Hub and GPI Hub Automate Your Email Marketing

Luke Armstrong from RenMind participated in a session to introduce NPI Hub and GPI Hub – marketing automation tools available to all franchise owners and paid for by National Property Inspections, Inc. Included in the Hub solutions is an email marketing system that allows you to manage your contacts, schedule and send emails to your entire contact list.

New for 2015: Business Breakout Sessions

This year, National Property Inspections, Inc., added three breakout sessions to the annual conference schedule to meet specific needs of NPI and GPI franchise owners. Led by NPI/GPI president Roland Bates, the following sessions were added:

• Operating Your Franchise: Growing to the Next Level

• Hiring Your First Employees

• Preparing to Retire or Sell Your Franchise

Conducted in a round-table setting with workbooks provided to everyone who attended, these sessions were hugely successful. Franchise owners had the opportunity to ask questions; share ideas, strategies and best practices; and find out the information they need for the next phase of their businesses.

“We returned to the annual conference this year after skipping a few years due to various reasons,” said Carrie Trotter, NPI franchise owner, Troy, Ohio. “One of the main reasons we returned were the new business sessions offered this year. We are in the midst of some growing pains and needed some new perspective and ideas from other franchisees. The business sessions on hiring and growing your business gave us some great ideas. It was great to see old friends and make some new ones!”

Another Successful Annual Conference

This year, 43 franchise owners were honored during the awards banquet event. In addition, four franchise owners were inducted into the NPI/GPI Hall of Fame. This semi-formal dinner and awards ceremony is always a favorite part of the annual conference event. It’s a chance for franchise owners’ hard work to be recognized by National Property Inspections, Inc., as well as by the award winners’ peers.

“We have outstanding franchisees, and these awards are our way of recognizing our top performers in various markets,” said Roland Bates, president of National Property Inspections, Inc. “Our franchisees did more business collectively this year than any year in the past. They have worked extremely hard to build their businesses, and every award winner is most deserving of their award.

2015 NPI/GPI Hall of Fame inductees.



“So [this was] my first time at a conference and all I have to say to myself is, why did I wait so long?” Said Michael Tebeau, Fred-erick, Maryland. “Great hospitality, food and an overall great experience. NPI knows how to put a great spread on without know-ing you’re getting training. Thank you NPI crew. I’LL BE BAAAACK”

The 2016 NPI/GPI Annual Conference was another great time for NPI and GPI fran-chise owners, their spouses and their em-ployees. From technical training and mar-keting to a unique session exercising their skills in handling complaints, attendees had a full schedule, and a lot of fun, during the two days of the conference, Nov. 11 and 12.

Jim Vaughn of Cape Coral, Florida, and Tony Marino of St. Petersburg, Florida, cheer on their fellow franchisees during the awards ceremony.

“We had a great time at our 2016 annual con-ference and though it’s not until November, I’m already looking forward to the next one. It’ll be the company’s thirtieth anniversary and we are already planning to make it fun and exciting! We’ll provide the kareokee, you bring your A game.” ~ Roland Bates

Bruce Barker, an author/editor of such books as “Everybody’s Building Code”, “Deck Safety Manual”, and more, a columnist in The ASHI Reporter, and an instructor, spent some time with franchisees on the important elements they should focus on when inspecting a wood-framed deck.

Mike Kleyla, with over 40 years in the business he teamed up with RamJack Foundation Repair and Grate Drain Waterproofing to tackle the tough foun-dation and water issues we face. He spent some time with our inspectors to discuss the effects of water damage to properties, foundation settling signs, wa-ter intrusion and its source, and why and how homes shift and move.

Vic Stevenart, a sales associate with Nudura Cor-poration, came in to educate everyone on the fea-tures, benefits and advantages of Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF). He spoke about the different types, the environmental, design and construction benefits of utilizing ICF and the basic installation techniques associated with this type of construction.

Peter Hopkins, Vice President of United Infrared Inc. conducted a two hour presentation regarding the best practices and financial benefits of including Sewer Scans to the list of services NPI and GPI fran-chisees can provide to help diversify their business.

Digital Marketing: How to Engage Your Audi-ence by Nurturing a StorySusan Price, Marketing Manager for NPI/GPI and Luke Armstrong from RenMind held a digital mar-keting session called “Taking the Fear Away”. Fran-chisees talked about what held them back from so-cial media, to the roadblocks of email marketing, to time management and priorities. They discussed the best tactics for getting more “likes” and “followers” and what content was favored over others.

Improving Your Public SpeakingKimberly Stevens, Marketing Coach for NPI/GPI, put on a great presentation about improving your public speaking that had the whole room engaged and enthused. With her new certification in coach-ing and public speaking through John Maxwell she brought a plethora of knowledge and wisdom to share with our NPI/GPI family. Kimberly had a panel of award winners give their unique stories on how they engage their audience when presenting in front of a group.

Marketing and Business Round Tables: An Op-portunity to Learn TogetherBill Erickson, VP of Marketing for NPI/GPI, lead the round-table discussion session, but this year was a little different. He decided to use the round tables as a team exercise: “First Class Customer Service”. Each group was given a scenario with images, an Inspection report and feedback from the customer, and as a group they were to come up with the best approach to nurture the client relationship. The session was very interactive. NPI/GPI franchisees learn from one another and support one another; this was no exception.

Randy Yates, Technical Coordinator for NPI/GPI, held a session on the new FAA ruling that profes-sionals are now able to fly drones commercially. Randy talked about the benefits while on the job and how the “cool factor” can help drum up a lot business for franchisees.

“Thanks to the Omaha team for putting together another great conference.” Said Laura Putnam, Vail, Colorado. “Blake and I enjoyed getting to know everyone! We came away with lots of new ideas that we can’t wait to implement and are al-ready looking forward to next year’s conference.”

Letter From The President

Technical Speakers Excite Franchisees

Marketing, Public Speaking and Business Management

Hot Topic: Drones

Highlights From the Survey

• Nearly 95 percent of respondents ratedNPI’s training program above average.

• More than 91 percent of respondentsrated NPI’s marketing and promotionalprograms above average.

• More than 94 percent of respondentsagreed or strongly agreed that they trustand respect NPI as a franchisor.

• Nearly 95 percent of respondents agreedor strongly agreed that NPI operates with ahigh level of honesty and integrity.

• Nearly 90 percent of respondents said thatNPI cares about their success.

• More than 97 percent of respondents saidthat they enjoy operating an NPI franchise.

• More than 93 percent of respondents saidthey have a positive attitude about theiraffiliation with NPI.

• Nearly 93 percent of respondents ratedtheir satisfaction with NPI above average.

What Franchisees Say About NPI

“At my 10-year anniversary, I had the opportunity to walk away from the monthly franchise fees. I feel being part of this family and all of the information that is available is well worth the monthly fee. I’m close to my 20-year anniversary and if given the opportunity, I will sign on for another term. Thank you, NPI.”

– Tracy Murphy, NPI Franchise Owner

“The NPI system allows us to have some freedom, rules have some flexibility and allow for the franchisee to have some individualism while being in a system. The NPI brand has been a big part of my success. The NPI management and staff are committed to helping us succeed and are more like an extended family than a corporation. So, now that I have been with NPI for 17 years, and many others have more years than that, it says it all. If we were not satisfied with the NPI experience we would have left years ago. Thanks to NPI for the opportunity to be included in the ‘family.’”

– Michael Oberacker, NPI Franchise Owner

“The systems that NPI have in place are very solid. They use up-to-date technology, have a very good handle on real-world problems and issues that we inspectors are experiencing.”

– Jim Vaughn, NPI Franchise Owner

“I think NPI is the best way to get into the home inspection business. The training, tools and software are second to none.”

– John Fast, NPI Franchise Owner

The Results Are In: The National Property Inspections Franchisee Satisfaction Survey

National Property Inspections, Inc., could tell you that we have a satisfied franchisee base, but the results of our

2015 Franchisee Satisfaction Survey conducted by Franchise Business Review speak for themselves. Read the

highlights and what our National Property Inspections and Global Property Inspections franchisees have to say

about us below.

Survey.insert.2015.v.1.indd 1 8/6/15 10:03 AM

The Results Are In: The National Property Inspections Franchisee Satisfaction Survey

AVERAGE RATING

Training & Support

Franchise System

Leadership

Core values

Franchisee Community

Self-Evaluation

Financial Opportunity

General Satisfaction

Overall (average)

1POOR

2AVERAGE

3GOOD

4VERY GOOD

5EXCELLENT

4.0

3.6

4.0

3.8

4.1

3.9

4.6

4.3

4.1

4.1

4.2

4.2

3.9

3.7

4.1

3.8

4.1

3.9

National Property Inspections, Inc. vs. Home Services Franchises 2015Reviewed by 159 franchisees (75%) in February 2015

National Property Inspections, IncHome Services Franchises 2015

“[The franchisees are] a top notch group of individuals that frequently goes out of their way to support each other. You can call anyone at any time on the team of franchisees.”

– Todd Newhook, GPI Franchise Owner

“The [annual] conferences are a very important part of my success. It gives me an opportunity to learn from others and build relationships. I highly recommend that all franchisees make effort to attend the conferences.”

– Steve and Lynn Gregory, NPI Franchise Owners

• Nearly 90 percent of respondents said they would recommend an NPI franchise to others.

• Over 90 percent of respondents said they have a positive attitude about their affiliation with NPI.

• Nearly 94 percent of respondents rated their satisfaction with NPI above average.

• Over 93 percent of respondents said they would recommend an NPI franchise to others.

Survey.insert.2015.v.1.indd 2 8/6/15 10:03 AM

At NPI, Julie Erickson, director of franchise sales, spoke with Giuffre on multiple occasions. “She was pleasant, patient with my questions and extremely informative,” Giuffre said. “It was a big difference from the other franchises I had called. I was impressed that she wanted to know about me and what I was looking to do and what I wanted from the franchise. No one else asked me what I wanted or told me what they could do for me. All of the other franchises were very cold when talking to them and let me know what I was required to do for them by owning their franchise. It was a huge difference speaking with NPI.”

In April 2006, Giuffre signed with National Property Inspections to start his own business in Sunset Beach, N.C.

Franchising the NPI Way

One of the things NPI prides itself on is outstanding support for its business owners from the moment they contact us about a franchise opportunity. Giuffre said that when calling NPI’s corporate office in Omaha, Neb., for help, opinion and direction in any topic, the staff is there to help him and his wife, Susan, immediately.

“If more information is needed, anyone at the home office is prompt in finding that information for us,” Giuffre said. “The support from NPI is a huge help in running our business. It enables me to conduct the best inspections I can, and now my inspectors who work for me call Omaha when they need answers for various topics, too. NPI is a huge help to Susan and my office staff in marketing, networking and presentations. In owning my NPI franchise, I do not have to reinvent the wheel.”

Giuffre said other benefits of NPI include the marketing materials supplied by the company, the inspection report software, the equipment that NPI supplies to each new business owner and promotional items. For example, the NPI startup package includes a tablet computer, a portable printer, and inspection tools, such as a moisture meter and gas sniffer.

Success With NPI

“We have never worked so hard in all our lives, and I mean that in a great way,” Giuffre said. “We are working hard for ourselves and now for our employees.” That hard work has paid off, as Giuffre’s business is one of NPI’s most successful.

“The training I have received through my franchise and the consistent help in all areas of my business have been priceless,” Giuffre said. “Being a franchisee has also put me in direct contact with other franchisees who are willing to help me succeed. There is no competition; we are all building our businesses and help each other in any way we can. I would not have that professional help from other inspectors/competitors if I was on my own. We are ‘home’ with our franchise.”

Hugh Meade owned a franchise restaurant in Johnston, Iowa, when the

home inspection industry began to appeal to him. Tired of the long hours

involved with the restaurant business and working with a mediocre

franchisor, Meade was searching for something new.

Meade previously bought and sold several investment properties and had an interest

in the property inspection field. “After talking with a real estate agent about the home

inspection industry, I decided to pursue the business,” Meade said.

Choosing the Right Franchise System

Meade thought about starting a home inspection business independently, as Iowa doesn’t require home inspectors to be certified or licensed. However, “after researching the possibility of going alone, I realized my best chance for success was having a successful franchise company to provide me with additional training and support,” Meade said.

In selecting a franchisor, Meade considered many factors, including the royalty rate, training, startup cost and support. He also wanted to be sure that the franchisor had a good reputation to avoid working with another franchisor with poor support.

“I wanted to do my due diligence when deciding on a home inspection franchise,” Meade said. “I had been with a restaurant franchise chain prior to NPI and experienced firsthand the problems with a bad franchisor. I researched NPI extensively on the Internet and called several NPI franchise owners to get feedback on how they felt about NPI. My final decision relied heavily on the comments of current NPI franchise owners.”

Iowa Franchise Owner Finds Success With NPI

Before purchasing a National Property Inspections franchise, Meade and his wife visited NPI’s home office in Omaha, Nebraska. There, he met with Roland Bates, president of NPI, and the home office staff. “After meeting Roland and the staff of NPI, my decision was made to join the NPI team.”

In October 2012, Meade signed with National Property Inspections to start his own property inspection business.

Franchising the NPI Way

Meade was impressed with NPI’s blueprint for building a business, which includes training on everything from the technical topics of home inspection to the marketing plan. In addition, NPI franchise owners receive a startup package that includes all of the equipment they will need for their business, such as a tablet computer, a portable printer, and inspection tools that include a moisture meter and gas sniffer.

“NPI has two weeks of training in Omaha and training in the field after that,” Meade said. “The field training allows you to work with other NPI franchise owners and gives you hands-on experience. NPI does a great job of preparing you to become a property inspector. There will still be situations that will come up outside your knowledge base, but that is when you call the support staff in Omaha to get the answers to your questions.”

NPI support staff is available seven days a week to answer any questions that franchise owners may encounter in the field. In fact, Meade described NPI’s support as “second to none.”

“When situations, questions, or challenges come up in the field, I know I can always pick up the phone and get assistance from the support staff at NPI.”

Success With NPI

“I only wish I had joined the NPI team earlier in my career,” Meade said. Since starting his NPI franchise, he has become a successful business owner in the property inspection field. “I followed NPI’s business model and have successfully grown my business to a point where I’ve had to hire another inspector to keep up with business demands.”

N 001673 N 001673

National Property Inspections, Inc.

Visitor TravelCard$300 Ticket Voucher

NPI issues reimbursement in the amount of: three hundred dolla� andFor travel arrangements contact:

Julie Erickson1-800-333-9807 Ext. 24 or [email protected]

President

Visitor TravelCard Ticket Voucher is valid for reimbursement of for your trip to visit National Property Inspections, Inc. for the amount of your trip up to $300 USD. It is redeemable while in Omaha on a visit with our staff. This voucher is only redeemable through NPI, Inc. Call for additional details 1-800-333-9807 Ext. 24.

This is not a check and is not redeemable for cash. You will be reimbursed for your trip expenses up to $300 USD. If you have any questions or concerns contact Julie Erickson, 1-800-333-9807 Ext. 24. We at National Property Inspections, Inc. hope to see you in Omaha soon.

$30000 100 00

Roland Bates

Personal Information

First Name __________________________________ Middle Initial ____________Last Name ____________________________

Address ______________________________________________City _________________ State _________ Zip ______________

Home Phone ____________________________Business Phone _______________________ Cellphone ______________________

Email Address ________________________________ Best time to contact ______________ May we contact you at work? Yes

Date of Birth _________________________ Marital Status ___________

Are you interested in taking the next step to NPI franchise ownership? Please complete

and return this form by mail or fax it to 1.800.933.2508. All information is confidential, and no

employers will be contacted without your consent.

Spouse Information (If Applicable)

First Name __________________________ Middle Initial ____

Last Name __________________________________________

Occupation _________________________________________

Annual Income ______________________________________

Will your spouse be active in the business Yes No

Education

Last Year Completed __________________________________

Degree(s)/Major(s) ___________________________________

Location of Interest

First Choice (city, state) ________________________________

Second Choice (city, state) ______________________________

Work Experience

Current Job Title/Duties ______________________________

Years at Current Job __________________________________

Annual Income (include bonuses) ________________________

What job titles have you held in the last 10 years?

1.) ________________________________________________

2.) ________________________________________________

3.) ________________________________________________

4.) ________________________________________________

Financial InformationHow much capital do you have to invest?

$10,000–$20,000 $20,000–$30,000

$30,000–$40,000 Other $ ____________

How will you obtain funding for the franchise purchase and living

expenses while building the business?

Savings/Investments Home Equity Loan

401(k), IRA Rollover SBA Bank Loan Other

General InformationWhen do you anticipate starting your business? _____________

Will this be a full-time enterprise? ________________________

Please rate your skills on a scale of 1 to 5, 5 being the most skilled:

_____ Public Relations/Sales _____Construction/Technical

_____ Meeting Your Goals _____Time Management

IMPORTANT NOTICE: The Federal Trade Commission requires franchisors, like National Property Inspections, Inc., to send a franchise disclosure document (FDD) to a prospective franchisee at least 10 days before signing a franchise agreement. Some franchisors may require that you visit their home office to obtain their FDD. National Property Inspections will gladly mail ours to you so you can evaluate our program at your convenience.

No

Let’s Talk I would like to know more about this opportunity

Providing all of your information is not required at this time.

your path to a bright future. - national property inspections · your path to a bright future. ......

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