Real Estate Training Systems, LLC upcoming events

NEW Texas Standards of Practice / Legal / Ethics UPDATE Course - New Braunfels (September 11, 2026)

Fri, 11 Sep 2026 13:00:00 GMT

New September 2025 - 2027
Texas Standards of Practice / Legal / Ethics Update

Satisfies TREC Mandatory Continuing Education
TREC Approved #68-INE

RETS is offering the 2025 - 2027 NEWLY UPDATED Training Program on the Mandated Continuing Education Course "Inspector Legal & Ethics and SOP Review Course".

This course will cover all of the changes to the SOP's and Report Form REI 7-6 that went into affect February 1, 2022. "More Details TREC Website."

This TREC Approved 8 hour CE course covers and meets the Update requirements and will count towards the 32-hour continuing education requirements needed to renew your license every two years. This courses requires a TREC mandatory written exam at the conclusion of each segment that will be covered and reviewed in class.

The goal of the Update course is to increase Inspectors knowledge of changes to the TREC Rules, Standards of Practice, legal issues and continue challenging Inspectors to maintain high ethical standards.

TREC will not renew your license unless you provide proof of completion for this Mandated Texas SoP / Legal / Ethics Update course.

Don't get caught in the dark when renewing your license.

Registration starts at 7 am the day of the course.
Class starts at 8 am.

Septic System "Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems" Inspections - New Braunfels (September 11, 2026)

Fri, 11 Sep 2026 13:00:00 GMT

8-Hours Continuing Education

TREC Approved Course #2318-INSC

Texas Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems “Septic Systems”

Have you been wanting to learn more about inspecting Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems “Septic Systems” or have been considering adding Septic System inspections to your ancillary services to offer your clients?

Most home inspectors are charging $200 to $300 to perform a septic system inspections along with the home inspection.

RETS has developed a Septic System inspection course for TEXAS Home Inspectors that covers Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) installation and maintenance of Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems “Septic Systems”.

This course will cover Traditional Systems, Aerobic Systems and Low Dose Drip Systems related to Texas soils and environment.

When you have completed the RETS Septic System Inspection course, you will be able to perform Traditional and Aerobic Septic System inspections with confidence.

After successful completion of the RETS training, you will be able to:

Use a checklist provided by RETS to systematically walk you through a septic system inspection;
Describe the different types of onsite wastewater (septic) treatment systems;
Understand different techniques for inspection septic systems;
Perform an operational and functional inspection; and
Document the inspection findings in a report.

Topics Covered

Installation
Maintenance
Setbacks
Tank Sizing
Aerator Pumps
Absorption Fields
and much, much more.

REGISTER TODAY!

Registration starts at 7 am the day of the course.
Class starts at 8 am.

Report Writing with Technology - New Braunfuls (September 12, 2026)

Sat, 12 Sep 2026 13:00:00 GMT

TREC Approved Course #2319-INSC

Streamline Your Inspection Report Writing With Technology!

Do you find yourself spending far too much time writing your inspection reports?

The Challenge of Report Writing

Some inspectors spend one, two, three, or even four hours putting their findings into writing—sometimes staying up until midnight or waking up at 4 a.m. just to finish a report before heading out for another inspection.

Reclaim Your Time

If you're ready to reclaim your free time, write reports faster, and enjoy more of what you love, this course is designed for you.

Course Overview

This course teaches you how to use technology to streamline report writing. Whether you're on-site or at home, you can use this technology to write reports—even as you walk around during an inspection.

Report Writing with Whisper Computer Solutions

Taught by Larry White, you'll discover how to use technology to reduce the time you spend writing reports. The class covers everything from basic to advanced features of the WhisperReporter Ascent Program, guiding you through creating professional inspection reports efficiently.

Getting Started with WhisperReporter Ascent

Not currently using Whisper software? No problem!
You can download the WhisperReporter Ascent program before or during class and use it for free—not only during the course but also for 14 days afterward, with no obligation to buy. Plus, you'll earn 8 hours of TREC-approved Continuing Education Credit.

Download Here: WhisperReporter Ascent

NO SOFTWARE PURCHASE IS REQUIRED to receive your CE credit!

The following topic areas will be covered in the class:

Installation
Setup
Introduction
Creating a report
Printing a report
Creating a PDF
Data Manager
Backups
Restore
Archive
Export
Merge
Working with Images
Using Whisper's Image EditLite
Rapid Remarks
Picklists
Cloaked Text
Tables (w/ Formulas)
Linked Text
Auto Summary
ISN Integration
Report Designer
Creating Templates
Room by Room Templates
Form Style Templates (WDI)

Sign Up Today!

Approved for 8 hours of Continuing Education

Registration starts at 7 am the day of the course.

Class starts at 8 am.

Foundation Evaluations - Foundation Survey Readings - New Braunfels (November 13, 2026)

Fri, 13 Nov 2026 14:00:00 GMT

TREC Approved Course #1075-INSC
8-hours Continuing Education

This course is intended to educate the Licensed Inspector on the proper approach for evaluating the performance of a structures foundation and to make an educated decision when to refer a professional engineer.

The purpose of this course is to communicate the proper protocol for a Licensed Inspector to take an interview with the client, record field notes, pictures and perform an elevation survey so a Home Inspector can make a determination on the “levelness” and performance of the foundation – both slab-on-ground and pier and beam.

Wither you use an elevation measuring tool or not, this course is loaded with useful information that will help you make an educated dissension on foundation performance.

Topics to be covered:

The purpose of this course is to communicate the proper protocol for a Licensed Professional Real Estate Inspector to take an interview with the client, record field notes, pictures and perform an elevation survey so a Home Inspector can make a determination on the “levelness” and performance of the foundation – both slab and pier and beam.
Introduction to the Standard Protocol of the American Society of Professional Engineers (ASCE) on the investigation of Foundation Performance including L/360 and 1% tilt.
Procedure for taking field notes: This includes, interview with the client, taking the required pictures, taking an elevation survey (including CAD) and delivering the information to the engineer.
Introduction on Deflection and Tilt Analysis to determine the criteria of foundation performance.
Pier and Beam inspections including critical factors such as drainage, ventilation, component performance, structural load path from attic to foundation.
Technical Discussion on Taking an Elevation Survey using a Zip-Level 2000.
Pictures and Examples of various types of cracking and what they indicate: vertical, horizontal and diagonal.

Course Instructor: Michael D. Gandy, P.E. , Professional Engineer

Principal owner and managing member of Lighthouse Engineering, LLC
Licensed Professional Engineer in Texas - P.E. MEC #95672 (06/02/2005)
Licensed Professional Real Estate Inspector - TREC #8720 (10/01/2005 - inactive)
International Code Council Certified (Residential Combination) - ICC #8012008
Bachelors of Science in Mechanical Engineering, University of Oklahoma, 1998
Masters of Science in Mechanical Engineering, University of Texas Arlington, 2004
Performed as engineer-on-record for over 15,000 inspections since 01/2006
http://lighthouseeng.com
Design repair plans and forensic analysis for slab foundations, pier and beam foundations, retaining walls, attic structures, load bearing headers and columns for both residential and commercial properties.
Private Pilot’s License
Secret Level Government Security Clearance (expired)

Tools for the Inspector & Best Use Practices - Arlington (November 14, 2026)

Sat, 14 Nov 2026 14:00:00 GMT

TREC Approved Course #2320-INSC
8-hours Continuing Education

Tools for the Inspector & Best Use Practices

Overview
Inspectors have access to a wide variety of tools, each chosen according to personal preference and the requirements of the inspection. In this training, participants will learn about essential and specialty tools commonly used in inspections. An inspector panel will share insights into their preferred equipment, and attendees are encouraged to bring their favorite tools for a show-and-tell session, explaining their choices and usage.

This will be a fun outside the tool box training course you still get to earn 8 hours of TREC Approved CE Credit.

Minimum Required Equipment
Home inspectors are only required to use a few types of equipment to comply with TREC Standards of Practice. In theory, an inspection can be performed using just four items: a flashlight, an electrical tester capable of testing ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) devices, a ladder, and a screwdriver. Additionally, inspectors must provide a written report documenting their findings.

Enhancing Inspection Value
While the basic tools fulfill regulatory requirements, inspectors often utilize additional equipment to increase the value of their inspections. Devices such as moisture meters, infrared cameras, and foundation elevation equipment enable inspectors to detect conditions that are not visible during a standard inspection. Though not required by the Standards of Practice, using these advanced tools can provide a competitive advantage by offering more thorough and valuable inspections.

Improving Efficiency and Access
Some equipment is used to make the inspection process easier or more efficient. For example, infrared thermometers allow inspectors to measure the temperature of heating and cooling system registers in hard-to-reach locations, such as under furniture, ensuring a comprehensive assessment without moving heavy objects.

Essential Tools & Equipment

Lighting: Bright LED flashlight, headlamp, inspection mirror.
Electrical: GFCI/AFCI tester, non-contact voltage tester, screwdrivers.
Measurement: Foundation elevation equipment, tape measure, level, laser thermometer, moisture meter.
Safety: Gloves, respirator/dust mask, safety glasses, knee pads, coveralls, shoe covers, road cones, "Danger" signs.
Advanced Tech: Thermal imaging camera, combustible gas detector, carbon monoxide detector, borescopes, drone (optional).
Documentation: Digital camera, tablet or laptop, inspection software.
General: Ladders (step, telescoping), multi-bit screwdriver set, telescoping magnet.

Best Practices

Prioritize Safety: Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves and masks. Use safety signs and cones, especially in hazardous areas like attics, crawlspaces, and on roofs.
Be Prepared: Carry multiple flashlights, keep backup batteries, and follow a methodical inspection approach.
Inspect Thoroughly: Examine areas behind appliances when accessible, look inside vents and flues using mirrors, test all outlets, and assess critical systems like HVAC and plumbing.
Document Everything: Take high-quality photos and maintain detailed notes using inspection software to ensure clear and complete reporting.
Use Technology Wisely: Employ infrared cameras and gas detectors to uncover issues not visible to the naked eye, recognizing that these tools supplement but do not replace core inspection practices.

Sign Up Today!

Registration starts at 7 am the day of the course.
Class starts at 8 am.