Meet Cornell Nichols

We were lucky to catch up with Cornell Nichols recently and have shared our conversation below.

Cornell, thank you so much for taking the time to share your lessons learned with us and we’re sure your wisdom will help many. So, one question that comes up often and that we’re hoping you can shed some light on is keeping creativity alive over long stretches – how do you keep your creativity alive?

For years, I found my creative spark as a property inspector, I walked into homes that were more than just structures. Each one had its own story of craftsmanship, neglect, renovation, and care. But there was a common thread—many property owners, especially those with limited resources, were overwhelmed by the maze of assessments, codes, and inspections. They were faced with daunting challenges that could cost them thousands, or worse, their homes.

I realized I could do more than just inspect and assess. I could educate. And that became my way of keeping my creativity alive.

I built this platform to teach property owners how to overcome property assessment failures. I started showing them how to spot potential issues before they become expensive problems—how to read between the lines of an inspection report and navigate the tricky terrain of local codes and permits. By helping them understand what really goes into a successful assessment, I empowered them to save money, protect their investments, and keep their homes safe. It wasn’t just about the structure, it was about the legacy.

But there was another driving force behind my work: my family. I knew that by creating this platform, I wasn’t just teaching others how to secure their homes—I was building something that would last for generations. Something that could become a foundation of wealth and knowledge for my own family.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

Did you know that hidden risks in your property could cost you thousands—or even millions—of dollars in fines? Many property owners have no idea that unpermitted work, unnoticed violations, and overlooked safety hazards are lurking in their homes, putting their investments at risk. That’s where I come in.

Over the past 5 years, I’ve helped property owners like you save over $6 million by uncovering the unseen dangers that typical home inspections miss. Whether it’s identifying unpermitted work that doesn’t show up on a lien search or flagging issues that inspectors overlook, my goal is simple: to protect your property and save you money.

My journey into consulting started after helping an investor reduce a massive $2 million fine by 98%—a success that ignited my passion to educate and empower property owners everywhere. With 15 years of experience working in government and over 10,000 property inspections under my belt, I’ve built a platform designed to give you the knowledge you need to avoid fines and protect your investment.

If you’re a property owner, don’t wait until it’s too late—tap into the expertise that has saved millions and secure peace of mind for your home and your wallet. Let’s make sure your property is a safe and smart investment!

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Compassion for Helping Others (Especially the Elderly):
From the beginning, I’ve been driven by a deep desire to help people, particularly elderly property owners who often feel overwhelmed by complex property issues. Compassion has allowed me to connect with individuals, truly understand their needs, and guide them through difficult situations. My advice for those starting out is to develop empathy and patience—understanding the human side of the work makes all the difference. Listen actively, and put yourself in the shoes of those you’re helping.

Expert Knowledge in Property Investment and Code Compliance:
My technical expertise—gained from working in government inspections and property compliance—has been vital. For those just beginning, I recommend investing time in learning the legal and technical aspects of real estate, code violations, and inspections. Understand how property investments work, the risks involved, and how to mitigate them.

Passion for Public Education and Advocacy:
Educating the public about property safety, fines, and inspections is a core part of what I do. It’s rewarding to see people empowered by knowledge. If you’re just starting out, find ways to share what you know—whether through blogs, workshops, or consultations. You don’t have to wait until you’re an expert to start teaching. As you share information, you’ll build trust and expand your expertise.

For anyone early in their journey, my advice is simple: Focus on learning, cultivate compassion, and share your knowledge. These qualities will not only help you grow, but they’ll also allow you to make a meaningful impact on the lives of others.

Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?

Absolutely! I’m always looking to collaborate with like-minded individuals and organizations who are passionate about real estate and helping property owners succeed. Whether you’re part of a real estate firm, a brokerage, a real estate agent, or even a real estate school, we have a lot of potential to work together in educating property owners and investors.

I’m also open to collaborating with real estate lenders who are looking for ways to support their clients in navigating fines and code violations, as well as celebrities involved in real estate, who are interested in using their platform to raise awareness about property safety and compliance.

If you’re passionate about helping property owners protect their investments, avoid costly fines, and educate the community, let’s connect! You can reach me at iamcornellnichols(IG) or via [email protected]. I look forward to partnering and making a bigger impact together!

Contact Info:

• Instagram: iamcornellnichols

Image Credits

Florida Code Enforcement Certificate
Home Inspector Certificate
Insurance Adjuster Certificate
Fema Certificate
Storm Water Certificate
Rental Housing Certificate