Pillar To Post CEO Reveals Strategy Behind Sustained Growth in Cooling Housing Market

The home inspection industry continues to demonstrate resilience amid housing market fluctuations, with Pillar To Post Home Inspectors reporting sustained growth despite broader economic headwinds. According to company President and CEO Charles Furlough, the demand for professional home inspections has become more critical rather than less important during market cooling periods. "Even in a cooling market, people still need homes and every one of those transactions requires confidence and clarity," Furlough explained. "What we're seeing is that inspections are becoming more critical, not less, because buyers and sellers can't afford surprises in this kind of environment."

Furlough's perspective is shaped by his unique career trajectory, having started as a franchise business owner with Pillar To Post in 1997 before growing the company into North America's largest home inspection network. This ground-level experience informs his leadership approach during economic uncertainty. "I know firsthand what it feels like to be on the ground as a franchise business owner, balancing operations, marketing, and client service all at once," he noted. This perspective keeps the corporate team focused on practical solutions that help local business owners thrive regardless of market conditions.

The company's success during challenging times can be attributed to several key factors. Pillar To Post has maintained discipline around fundamental business practices including quality inspections, strong agent relationships, and consistent client service. Simultaneously, the company has made significant investments in technology, such as their new Pillar To Post HomePage platform, which delivers value in innovative ways that the industry hasn't previously seen. This combination has enabled franchise owners to capture more business per real estate agent even when overall transaction volumes decline.

Furlough attributes much of the company's growth to what he calls the "Executive Model" of franchising. This approach focuses on building scalable businesses rather than simply creating jobs for owners. "The Executive Model is about building a business, not just buying yourself a job," Furlough explained. "It's designed to be scalable, with systems and support in place so owners can grow at their own pace." This model features low overhead, lean team structures, and emphasizes leadership and relationship-building over operational tasks, making it particularly appealing to professionals transitioning from corporate careers, military service, and other backgrounds.

The current economic environment has also created favorable conditions for franchising as a career path. Furlough observes that "there's been a shift in values: people want autonomy, ownership, and control over their futures." Home inspection services resonate with this trend because they address essential needs tied to one of life's most significant financial and emotional decisions. The consistent demand for professional home evaluations, combined with the opportunity to build lasting businesses based on trust and professionalism, makes this sector particularly attractive to new entrepreneurs.

Looking forward, Furlough sees technology, evolving workforce values, and market adaptability as key drivers for the home services franchise sector. "Technology will keep raising expectations," he predicted. "Clients and agents want seamless, transparent experiences, and the brands that deliver that will stand apart." The changing workforce priorities around autonomy and flexibility align well with the franchise model, while market conditions will continue to fluctuate around essential services like housing. The companies that succeed will be those that innovate effectively, support their franchise owners comprehensively, and adapt quickly to how people want to work and live.

For professionals considering entrepreneurship through franchising, Furlough emphasizes the importance of clarity and commitment. "Be clear about why you want to own a business and what kind of life you're trying to build," he advised. While franchising provides systems and support, success ultimately depends on the owner's effort and persistence. The sustained growth of home inspection services during market challenges demonstrates that essential services tied to fundamental human needs can thrive regardless of economic conditions when delivered with professionalism and strategic focus.