It all starts with a phone call. A prospective homebuyer/seller calls about your services and fees. The impression your firm makes over the telephone, in large part, will determine whether the caller hires you.

Bill and Jeanne Sutton run the Bay Colony Home Inspection Co. in Milton, Mass. – one of the best in the business. “How you take calls matters big time,” said Jeanne Sutton. “Answering machines don’t have the time it takes to sell your services. And by the time you get around to answering the messages, many people already have booked another inspector. If you’re unable to hire a person to answer the phone, check your messages and return calls every hour or so. And make sure to do it when you have time to talk and listen to the buyer.”