Daniel Link is Owner of Foundations Property Services. Foundations is a full service inspection and property services company performing: Home Inspections, Radon testing and mitigation services, Mold sampling and indoor air quality testing, Water testing, Septic system inspections, Pool and spa inspections, Termite and wood destroying insect inspections, and Home Energy Tune UPs. Foundations has locations throughout PA, DE, VA and FL. Foundations has been a member of the Association since 2005. Dan is a very active member, having recently run for the Affiliate Member position on the 2008 Board of Directors, serving on the Association’s Affiliate Member Forum and has donated prizes to many REALTOR® Happy Hours.

Please share with us your background and your career track.

I began my professional career in the fitness and wellness industry, building two of the top 6 clubs in the country as their General Manager for 7 years. In that time, I was involved in the construction of over 30 million dollars of commercial buildings including pools, restaurants, fitness space, day spas, etc. I was also involved in the day to day leadership of over 300 employees and 12,000 members. With a love of teaching and coaching, and my background in construction, the home inspection industry seemed like a great opportunity for me. We have evolved since inception from a small dedicated team of inspectors to a group of professionals who are focused on improving the image, service, and experience our clients receive through their home inspection.

As the state considers the possible licensure of home inspectors, what is your opinion on this possible development?

Creating a higher standard of practice is good for all industries. We may either police our own skills and practices, or have our state and national governments assist us in developing the discipline necessary to provide a better product to our clients. As long as licensure helps to promote better products or services, it will only help all those involved in our profession.

How would you define professionalism in regards to your business and involvement in real estate?

It starts with pride in one’s self. To look like a professional, act like a professional, and communicate like a professional. To have a professional philosophy that you define and for which you hold yourself accountable. Professionalism is understanding why we are there, what we are expected to do, and what we aren’t expected to do. To give extra when we can, and let our personal and professional philosophies guide our behaviors. Professionalism is really nothing more than doing the right thing, in the right way, all the time, not just when someone else is watching.

What are the greatest joys you’ve gotten out of your role in real estate?

We are blessed to participate in transactions that mark great moments in peoples’ lives. We have the ability to act as a guide during one of life’s most important transitions, yet probably one we take for granted… home ownership! To own a home is a huge step towards creating a family, building wealth, and providing success for future generations. The home is really the most valuable asset most Americans will ever own. To be a part of that is really a great thing.

At the end of a busy day, how do you prepare yourself for the next challenge?

For me, it’s the busy day that does prepare me for the next challenge. I am most motivated when the phones are ringing off the hook, inspectors are creating great experiences for home buyers, and our office staff is busy following up and making the experience seamless for home owners, buyers, and their respective agents. I love building success with a team of people… that is what gets me out of bed in the morning!