Jerry,
I echo what most of the others have said.

I do have to disagree with Patrick though on the IR camera. IT would involve a huge investment for a start up. IN fact, that one tool is probably 3 -4 times the total cost of everything else you need to open shop.

I also think that to use such a tool without some experience actually doing inspections is kind of like going from a beach cruiser bike to a $30K Tour de France racing bike. You have this fantastic tool, but really don't know how or when to use all the features it has.

If I were in your shoes, I would probably call the inspectors in your area and have a frank discussion with them. Attend the local ASHI chapter meeting and get to know the members. Get your hands on old phone books and see how many new ones have started, and how many have dropped out.

I for one get calls like this all the time. I will spend some time with the caller, others may not, so don't get upset if some hang up on you, or show little patience with your questions.

If I was thinking of starting up here in the Knoxville area now, I probably would NOT do it. I have no idea what the market is like in your area.

I guess my parting thought is to NOT jump into this field thinking that you are going to offer something special, or have just graduated the "bestest ever" HI school and is going to offer something that people will be breaking your doors down to get. It's just not there. OH, and don't fall for that one Realtor friend that says they will give you ALL of their business.

Good luck
JF

BY the way, I am willing to discuss this further if you wish by private e-mail.