To watch a video version of this podcast, click here: https://youtu.be/GcQUDCQAgsI

In this episode, Reuben Saltzman speaks with film producer George Siegal, known for his documentary Built to Last, Buyer Beware. They explore the hidden risks of home buying, with a focus on insurance coverage, building codes, and purchasing in high-risk areas. Drawing on his background in TV news, George emphasizes how often buyers overlook critical details such as insurance limitations and local hazards. The episode serves as a cautionary discussion, encouraging prospective homeowners to ask the right questions and make informed decisions to protect their investments and families.

Here's the link to Inspector Empire Builder: https://www.iebcoaching.com/events
Check out George Siegal’s LinkedIn profile here -
https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-siegal/
Complete this short form for access to the special offer mentioned on the show: https://pro.speakerhub.com/speaker-feedback/?qr=980babe6-74ff-48c0-b387-83ec6aa6fe38
For the long version of the film, Built to Last:
movetheworldfilms.gumroad.com/l/kaywco

Takeaways

You have to assess your overall situation.
Don't think that just because your house burned down, you don't have to still pay the mortgage.
You need to understand all this stuff, and it's not fun
You have to ask questions and find out as much information as you can.
If someone tells you you’re being a nuisance or refuses to answer your questions, don’t buy the house.
You should know what they are before you go and ask them the question.
You have to dig into that a little bit.
You have to become a detective when you're buying a house.
If a builder ever looks at you, puffs out his chest, and says, “This house is built to code,” I wouldn’t buy it.
You want an inspector who does more than just look at the plug rating and say, “Yeah, that plug’s not connected right.”

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
01:55 George Siegal's Background and Career Transition
03:08 Overview of the Documentary "Built to Last"
04:25 Understanding Home Buying Decisions
05:22 The Importance of Insurance Awareness
09:24 Assessing Risks in Home Locations
14:17 Building Codes and Their Implications
18:28 Navigating Insurance Challenges
22:38 The Role of Inspectors in Home Buying
30:23 Key Questions for Home Buyers

To watch a video version of this podcast, click here: https://youtu.be/eVsiOW_Ynig

In today’s episode, Reuben and Tessa reflect on their holiday experiences and catch up on recent home projects, sharing practical insights on everything from snowblowers to indoor air quality concerns. They dive deeper into the complexities of health issues tied to home environments and discuss water quality challenges in Tessa’s new Florida residence. Along the way, the conversation highlights the difficulties of identifying and resolving these issues while underscoring the importance of family, transitions, and new beginnings.

Check this link for my power shovel demo video:
https://youtube.com/shorts/FzCBk2Z1jpc?si=9iYfiCXwn88r8GD0

Takeaways

Time seems to speed up as we grow older.
Spending time with family is invaluable.
Snowblowers can be enjoyable to use.
Indoor air quality can significantly affect health.
Home diagnostics can be complex and frustrating.
Water quality issues can arise from various sources.
It's important to investigate health symptoms thoroughly.
New beginnings can bring both challenges and opportunities.
Collaboration in the industry can lead to better solutions.
Listening to others' experiences can provide valuable insights.

Chapters

00:00 New Year Reflections and Family Time
02:51 Home Projects and Snowblower Insights
05:59 HRV Troubles and Indoor Air Quality
12:01 Mystery Health Issues and Home Diagnostics
23:37 Water Quality Concerns and Solutions
30:02 New Beginnings in Florida

To watch a video version of this podcast, click here: https://youtu.be/btTlpjM1w2c

In this episode, Reuben and Tessa explore practical smart home upgrades and energy-saving tools. They share hands-on experiences with infrared cameras, energy monitoring devices, and water leak prevention systems. The discussion also touches on the challenges of managing multiple smart devices and finding the right balance between convenience and simplicity. If you’ve ever wondered which gadgets are worth the investment for safety and efficiency, this episode is for you.

Here's the link to Inspector Empire Builder: https://www.iebcoaching.com/events

Takeaways

Infrared cameras for mobile devices can be great backups but aren’t ideal for daily home inspections.
Smart plugs with built-in energy monitoring (like TP-Link TAPO) are affordable and effective.
Energy monitors help track electricity costs and optimize usage.
Automatic water leak detection systems can prevent costly damage and insurance claims.
Managing multiple smart devices can become overwhelming—simplicity matters.
Leak prevention systems like YoLink offer peace of mind for homeowners.
Investing in smart home tech should prioritize safety and efficiency over novelty.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates
03:45 Infrared Camera Review: TopDon TC002C DUO
08:14 Affordable Alternatives for Android and Apple Users
09:37 Energy Monitoring Devices and Smart Plugs
14:30 Automating Energy Savings with TAPO Smart Plugs
18:00 The Reality of Managing Multiple Smart Devices
27:08 Leak Prevention Systems: Guardian vs. YoLink
32:12 Why Every Home Needs Automatic Leak Detection
35:45 Wrapping Up and Listener Invitation