Matthew Ramirez knows that buying a home is one of the biggest decisions in a person’s life. As a home inspector with Buyers Choice Home Inspection in Albany, Oregon, he’s made it his mission to help people navigate this often nerve-wracking process with confidence and peace of mind.
Matthew’s journey to becoming a home inspector wasn’t a straight path. Born and raised in Albany, Matthew graduated from West Albany High School and attended Linn-Benton Community College. Initially, he planned to become a special education teacher, but life had other plans. “Things just kind of unfolded and threw me into the home inspection world,” Matthew shared. “It’s been probably one of the best decisions work-wise, I’ve made in my life so far.”
For Matthew, home inspection isn’t just about finding faults in a house—it’s about helping people feel secure in their decisions. He understands that the process can be stressful, and he aims to provide a sense of comfort and reassurance to his clients. “Being able to show people that things that are may seem stressful and scary, don’t have to be,” is a core part of his philosophy.
One of Matthew’s most memorable inspections took place in Lincoln City, where he was asked to evaluate a home for a family seeking a final residence for their elderly grandmother, as well as a place for their son to grow up. This inspection was special to Matthew because of the family’s story and their hopes for the home. “I took a little extra care throughout the home, thinking about how it would be for an elderly person and also for a younger person,” he recalled.
During the inspection, Matthew walked through the home with the client’s father, a contractor with 25 years of experience. The experience was not only smooth but also fulfilling. “They just really, really showed gratitude for the extra little bit that I took,” Matthew said, reflecting on how their appreciation reinforced his commitment to going above and beyond in his work.
Matthew has noticed some interesting trends in the home inspection industry, particularly in the attitudes of his clients. More and more, he’s seeing people who are not afraid of taking on homes with defects, especially when it comes to older properties. “People are almost excited and ready to take on such a challenge,” he observed. “Rebuilding a home is a lot of work, but it’s something I’m seeing more of.”
This trend is a shift from what might be expected, particularly among first-time homebuyers who might otherwise be intimidated by a fixer-upper. However, Matthew notes that there’s still a difference between younger buyers, who are often eager to tackle projects, and older buyers, who may prefer homes that require less work.
One of the most important pieces of advice Matthew offers to his clients is to not let the anxiety of the home inspection report get to them. “There’s no such thing as a perfect house. It doesn’t exist,” he explained. This simple truth can be a huge relief for buyers who are worried about potential issues.
Matthew encourages clients to meet with their inspector beforehand, even if it’s just over a cup of coffee, to get a feel for how they will approach the inspection. “Sit down with the inspector first so you know what to expect from them,” he advised. This approach helps ensure that the client understands the process and doesn’t feel overwhelmed by the findings, which might be presented in a way that could seem alarming at first glance.
Matthew is part of the Buyer’s Choice Home Inspection franchise, a company with a strong reputation for customer service. Founded over 20 years ago by a successful realtor who was frustrated by the lack of thorough inspectors, Buyer’s Choice has grown significantly and now includes about 250 inspectors across the U.S., Canada, and New Zealand.
The company’s focus on customer service aligns perfectly with Matthew’s own values. “At the end of the day, it’s about providing comfort to the clients and to the agents as well,” he said. Matthew’s training through Buyer’s Choice gave him the tools and support needed to excel in his role, and he’s proud to be part of a network that prioritizes the customer experience.
When it comes to getting a home inspection, Matthew’s advice is straightforward: don’t let fear take over. “Remind yourself that just because there might be a red circle around something in the report, doesn’t always mean it’s detrimental,” he emphasized. Having an inspector who can help put things in perspective is crucial.
For young entrepreneurs, Matthew has another piece of advice: find something you love and don’t be afraid of the hard work it takes to succeed. “If what you’re doing isn’t what you could be doing every day, and you don’t enjoy it, then maybe something different is where you should go,” he suggested. Matthew’s own experience in home inspection has been rewarding precisely because it’s something he truly enjoys.
When he’s not inspecting homes, Matthew enjoys the local spots that Albany has to offer. His favorite restaurant is Sweet Red, a popular choice for its cozy atmosphere and delicious food. For coffee, he heads to Brick and Mortar, a local favorite known for its great brews.
Matthew also has a soft spot for Special Olympics and unified sports, causes that he supported during his high school years and continues to hold dear. These organizations have had a lasting impact on him, and he remains passionate about giving back to the community.
Matthew Ramirez’s work with Buyer’s Choice Home Inspection is more than just a job—it’s a commitment to helping people feel secure in their home-buying decisions. By offering comfort, guidance, and a calm perspective, Matthew ensures that his clients are well-informed and at ease throughout the inspection process. His dedication to his craft and his community is evident in every inspection he conducts, making him a trusted partner in Albany’s real estate scene.
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Aug. 15th, 2023