Buying A Home? Don't Panic! with John Laforme

John Laforme

Buying A Home? Don't Panic! Let me help you set realistic expectations with your home buying process. Welcome to my podcast, My name is John Laforme I am a certified home inspector and the owner of Home Inspection Authority LLC. I am an active home inspector from Los Angeles. My podcast allows me to share my day to day home inspection experience's and knowledge to help home buyers, home owners, realtors and other home inspectors set realistic expectations with each other during the home buying process. The podcast feature's special guests such as actual home buyers, realtors and contractors such as Termite, HVAC, Roofing, Plumbing, electrical, foundation, drainage and other home inspectors. The purpose of each podcast episode is to educate all listeners to better understand the home buying process and how to take care of your home. Click here To schedule a home inspection in the Los Angeles Area: https://www.homeinspectionauthority.com/schedule-inspection/

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Top 10 Buying A Home? Don't Panic! with John Laforme Episodes

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Lets be Clear About Post & Pier Repair!

Buying A Home? Don't Panic! with John Laforme

03/14/25 • 10 min

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The posts and piers under your home support the foundation and floor structure of your house. They help distribute the weight of the home evenly to the ground, preventing sagging, shifting, or structural failure. Specifically, they support:

John Laforme and YC from SoCal seismic construction discuss the importance of posts, piers, and beams in home foundations. They explain that these interior elements support the floor joists and walls, and can face issues like spalling, deterioration, and misalignment, similar to foundation problems. They highlight common defects such as undermining due to plumbing work, settling due to moisture, and water intrusion causing rot. The average cost to replace a post and pier is around $400, depending on accessibility and other factors. They also discuss the pros and cons of different foundation types and the comprehensive inspections conducted during retrofitting.

Step-by-Step Process:
1. Assess the Damage
- Inspect the post and pier for signs of rot, cracks, or shifting.
- Check if only the post needs replacing or if the pier itself is damaged.
2. Provide Temporary Support
- Place a hydraulic jack under the beam near the damaged post.
- Slowly lift just enough to relieve pressure on the damaged post (do not over-lift to prevent structural damage).
- Insert temporary support (jack stands or a temporary wood beam).
3. Remove the Damaged Post & Pier
- If the post is wood, cut it out carefully with a saw.
- If the pier is cracked or sinking, dig it out and remove any debris.
4. Install a New Pier (if needed)
- Dig a hole below the old pier (usually 18-24 inches deep, depending on soil conditions).
- Pour a concrete footing and let it cure for at least 24-48 hours.
- Place a concrete pier block or pour a new pier using a sonotube.
- Ensure the pier is level and aligned properly.
5. Install a New Post
- Cut a new pressure-treated post to the correct height.
- Secure the post to the new pier using a metal post base.
- Attach the top of the

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Listener Feedback Is Always Welcome and Appreciated.
Is there a particular topic I have not covered on the show that you want to hear?
You can become a supporter of the show by clicking this link below, become a supporter and get a shout out on the next podcast episode.
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Please feel free to email me what type of topics you are interested in as well as any other tips to improve your listening experience. [email protected]
🔴 Please Subscribe To My YouTube Channel to receive updates on the video version of the podcasts and hundreds of real home defect videos I find during actual home inspections as well as how to maintain your home videos:
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🟢 If you are in the Los Angeles area and are in the process of buying a home I am available to inspect it for you. You can Schedule Inspection Online 24/7
https://www.homeinspectionauthority.com/
John Laforme
Certified CREIA Inspector Member #0155263
Home Inspection Authority LLC
Former President of CREIA Mid Valley Chapter
Former Vice President of CREIA Mid Valley Chapter

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Is Home Solar For Everyone? Part 2 With Manny Hernandez

Buying A Home? Don't Panic! with John Laforme

07/16/23 • 27 min

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Part 2 with Manny Hernandez from Solar Service Professionals.
Is home solar for everyone? Or is solar just snake oil? I have not been sold on solar because of past conversations with solar contractors and realtors as well as home owners. As of now no one has explained solar to me in a way i could understand it and how solar would benefit me. So does it really work? And is solar for all home owners or all homes?
Lets Ask Manny
I met the owner of Solar Service Professionals Manny Hernandez when he hired me to inspect his home from a referral courtesy of his realtor Larry Cook. I had no idea Manny was in the solar business, but when i found out i picked his brain and quickly asked him to be a guest on the podcast.
Manny has years of experience in all solar industry positions which makes him very knowledgeable about designing, installing, monitoring and inspecting solar systems for proper operation.
This multi part podcast will cover all things solar, so sit back and relax as Manny educates both you and me about the pros & cons of solar. Be sure to listen to all parts of this Solar podcast so you can make an informed decision if solar is right for you and your family.
You can contact Manny Hernandez Directly
https://solarserviceprofessionals.com/
866-765-7767

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HVAC Contractor Dean Gilford Answers FAQ for Home Owners Part 2

Buying A Home? Don't Panic! with John Laforme

07/09/23 • 29 min

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Heating & Cooling Contractor and owner of Kilowatt HVAC Dean Gilford Answers FAQ For Home Owners: Part Two

Dean offers 30 plus years of heating and cooling experience installing retro fit upgrades for existing homes. Dean and I answer frequently asked questions from our everyday customers to help current and future home owners better understand their heating and cooling systems.
Topics In This Episode:
How often do you need to have your HVAC serviced?
Dean recommends more maintenance on a newer HVAC system.
What does a (TD) Temperature difference mean?
The number #1 issue with HVAC is Flow?
Dean explains his service maintenance program and costs.
A new thermostat does NOT mean you have a new HVAC present!
Mini ductless split systems (not that aesthetically pleasing) but they work!
What to know about buying a home equipped with a no name HVAC system!
Electric Heat Pump systems VS Gas fueled forced air furnace systems!
Contact Dean Gilford Directly
https://www.kilowatthvac.com/

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HVAC Contractor Dean Gilford Answers FAQ For Home Owners: Part 1

Buying A Home? Don't Panic! with John Laforme

03/29/23 • 29 min

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Heating & Cooling Contractor and owner of Kilowatt HVAC Dean Gilford Answers FAQ For Home Owners: Part One
Dean offers 30 plus years of heating and cooling experience installing retro fit upgrades for existing homes. Dean and I answer frequently asked questions from our everyday customers to help current and future home owners better understand their heating and cooling systems.
Topics In This Episode:
Is my air filter for my breathing and indoor air quality?
How often should i change my air filter?
What is an Air filtration system and how does it work?
How to best use your thermostat?
Should i leave my HVAC system off when i leave home on hot days?
Do you have pets? Here are some tips you need to know!
Contact Dean Gilford Directly
https://www.kilowatthvac.com/

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Sewer Lateral Camera Inspection Limitations Explained with Chuck Lambert

Buying A Home? Don't Panic! with John Laforme

02/13/23 • 79 min

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In this podcast episode 37 I am joined by Chuck Lambert of Sunrise Inspection Services & Orange County Sewer Inspections.
Chuck had some constructive criticism of a sewer video i posted on facebook so he reached out to me and shared some great information from his experience inspecting sewer lateral pipes. In return i invited him to be a guest on the podcast to get into some straight talk about real life on the job sewer line inspection experiences.
Between the both of us this podcast is packed with tons of helpful information and interesting sewer inspection stories for all to enjoy.
Follow Chuck On IG @suninsp and @orangecountysewerinspections
Websites: https://www.sunriseinspectionservices.com/
https://www.orangecountysewerinspection.com/

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MMA Referee Michael Bell And I Discuss Investment Properties and MMA

Buying A Home? Don't Panic! with John Laforme

01/28/23 • 89 min

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Mixed Martial Arts Referee Michael Bell And I Discuss Investment Properties and his experiences as an MMA referee and Judge.
I have inspected one of Michaels potential investments back in 2020 before the pandemic hit home. Michael breaks down why he walked away from this property and found himself investing out of state.
Michael and I met back in 2005 when UFC Referee Big John McCarthy opened his ultimate training center in Santa Clarita California.
We take you down memory lane with all the great MMA training stories we could think of including a laundry list of who's path's we had the pleasure of crossing over the years.
You can follow Michael @Michaelbellmma on Instagram

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Doug Smaldino Says Stop Procrastinating, Buy That Home Now!

Buying A Home? Don't Panic! with John Laforme

05/05/24 • 38 min

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My guest Doug Smaldino is the owner of Hillhurst Mortgage located in Los Feliz California. I purchased my home with the help of Doug and and his awesome team at Hillhurst Mortgage back in October 2022.
Doug has a message for all first time home buyers!
Stop Procrastinating and buy a home now!
Don't worry about the rates so much just focus on getting your foot in the door of that house you have always wanted. Once your in you can always refinance to a lower rate when that time arrives as it always does. Call Doug and ask about the tax shelter you will get after you buy your home, after Doug helps you put this in perspective you will be happy you did.
Douglas M. Smaldino, CPA | Senior Mortgage Loan Officer
NMLS# 340464 | Cal DRE# 01149672 | FL # LO63047
O (323) 522-1020 | D (323) 522-1040 | C (323) 707-3200 | F (323) 522-1030
https://hillhurstmortgage.com/
1662 Hillhurst Avenue, Suite A | Los Angeles, CA 90027
5535 S. Williamson Blvd., Suite 725 | Port Orange, FL 32128

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CREIA Standards Of Practice Section 2: Exteriors With Bud Hayes

Buying A Home? Don't Panic! with John Laforme

02/19/22 • 82 min

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Episode 17: CREIA Standards Of Practice Section 2: Exteriors
This episode has special guest Bud Hayes from Hayes Inspection Group, Bud is a CREIA certified inspector as well. Bud and I break down each sub section and explain the standards of practice.
As promised here is a youtube video explaining how to identify if the doors are installed backwards.
https://youtu.be/RXNfGy4c8fY
CREIA Standards of Practice

Residential Standards of Practice - Four or Fewer Units

Part II. Standards of Practice

A home inspection includes the readily accessible systems and components, or a representative number of multiple similar components listed in Sections 1 through 9 subject to the limitations, exceptions, and exclusions in Part III.
SECTION 2 - Exterior
A. Items to be inspected:
1. Surface grade directly adjacent to the buildings
2. Doors and windows
3. Attached decks, porches, patios, balconies, stairways and their enclosures, handrails and guardrails
4. Wall cladding and trim
5. Portions of walkways and driveways that are adjacent to the buildings
6. Pool or spa drowning prevention features, for the sole purpose of identifying which, if any, are present.
B. The Inspector is not required to:
1. Inspect door or window screens, shutters, awnings, or security bars
2. Inspect fences or gates or operate automated door or gate openers or their safety devices
3. Use a ladder to inspect systems or components
4. Determine if ASTM standards are met or any drowning pre
Thank you to our Episode Sponsor Guitar Ninjas
https://www.guitarninjas.com/
John Laforme
CREIA Certified Home Inspector
Home Inspection Authority LLC
https://www.homeinspectionauthority.com/

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Photography 101 for Home Inspectors | Why are home inspection photos so important?

Buying A Home? Don't Panic! with John Laforme

12/25/21 • 20 min

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Photography 101 for Home Inspectors, Why are home inspection photos so important?
Seriously do your report photos SUCK! Are they dark, fuzzy or over exposed? Listen to this podcast to learn how to improve your photos.
In this episode John talks about why home inspection photos are so important even after the inspection. John also talks about how to take better photos on site to keep the home inspection report writing process going without slowing you down later.
Have you been accused of damaging a part of the property you inspected and had no defense except for ( It wasn't Me!) defense? Taking photos of the entire property can help minimize this issue and help you divert a potential claim or accusation from the seller, buyer or realtors.

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Do Not Skip The Sewer Camera Inspection If Your Buying A Home!

Buying A Home? Don't Panic! with John Laforme

09/21/21 • 62 min

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Episode 4:
Too sewer scope or not to sewer scope? That is the big question when buying a home. John Laforme and Robert Deyl both agree having your sewer lateral inspected is a must have inspection when buying a home, Heres why.
The unknown is a sewer lateral pipe which is buried under ground between your foundation and the city sewer connection. This pipe is the responsibility of the home owner (you), so if you buy a home and choose not to have the sewer camera inspection performed and it happens to be blocked, full of roots, collapsed etc, It is your (the Home owners) responsibility to repair or replace the pipe at your expense and these repairs can range from 2,000.00 to 25,000.00 depending on whats wrong with the pipe. Spending a few hundred dollars during your inspection contingency period to have the sewer camera inspection performed is a great investment. So do not skimp on the inspections skimp on the window treatments!
Here are some common unrealistic expectation during a home or sewer inspection:
1) Just because the sinks and tubs are draining does not mean you do not need the sewer camera inspection. This is common logic among realtors and buyers.
2) There is a shiny new ABS plastic clean-out in the front yard on a 1950's house, so doesn't this mean the sewer lateral has been replaced? Not necessarily, in most cases the only upgrade was the clean-out was installed so its very likely this is the only section of pipe thats new.
3) The sellers disclosed that the drain plumbing has been upgraded, this typically means the plumbing under the house has been upgraded Not the under ground sewer lateral unless specifically described on the invoice.
You can contact Robert Deyl Plumbing online
http://www.robertdeylplumbing.com/

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FAQ

How many episodes does Buying A Home? Don't Panic! with John Laforme have?

Buying A Home? Don't Panic! with John Laforme currently has 66 episodes available.

What topics does Buying A Home? Don't Panic! with John Laforme cover?

The podcast is about Leisure, Home & Garden, Real Estate, How To, Podcasts and Education.

What is the most popular episode on Buying A Home? Don't Panic! with John Laforme?

The episode title 'Underlayment's for Engineered Hardwood Flooring & Luxury Vinyl Flooring' is the most popular.

What is the average episode length on Buying A Home? Don't Panic! with John Laforme?

The average episode length on Buying A Home? Don't Panic! with John Laforme is 53 minutes.

How often are episodes of Buying A Home? Don't Panic! with John Laforme released?

Episodes of Buying A Home? Don't Panic! with John Laforme are typically released every 12 days.

When was the first episode of Buying A Home? Don't Panic! with John Laforme?

The first episode of Buying A Home? Don't Panic! with John Laforme was released on Sep 1, 2021.

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Buying A Home? Don't Panic! with John Laforme

John Laforme

Top 10 Buying A Home? Don't Panic! with John Laforme Episodes

FAQ

How many episodes does Buying A Home? Don't Panic! with John Laforme have?

What topics does Buying A Home? Don't Panic! with John Laforme cover?

What is the most popular episode on Buying A Home? Don't Panic! with John Laforme?

What is the average episode length on Buying A Home? Don't Panic! with John Laforme?

How often are episodes of Buying A Home? Don't Panic! with John Laforme released?

When was the first episode of Buying A Home? Don't Panic! with John Laforme?

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