Our Instructors

My name is Henry Sander, but most know me as Hank. I’ve been a licensed home inspector since 2013, and today I operate across the US in Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, New York, Kentucky, Maryland, Arkansas, Missouri, Iowa, Michigan, California and soon, Washington State. Over the years, my company, Heartland Home Inspections, has completed more than 6,000 residential inspections, serving thousands of clients with professionalism and care.

I’m also the founder and lead instructor at Heartland Education and Training Group, where we’ve trained over 3,000 pre-licensed and licensed home inspectors and real estate professionals over the last 7 years. I spend approximately 250 days a year teaching, mentoring, and leading workshops across the country.

I take great pride in my role as an educator and mentor, sharing not just technical knowledge, but the lessons learned through real-world experience—both successes and failures. I know what it’s like to start with limited support. Today, I aim to be the mentor I never had when I began.

Credentials & Licenses

• Licensed Home Inspector in: Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, New York, Kentucky, Maryland, Arkansas (pending Washington)
• Licensed Home Inspection Entity – State of Illinois
• Illinois Licensed Realtor CE Instructor
• ASHI Certified Inspector (ACI) | Background Verified Inspector (BVI)
• InterNACHI Certified Master Inspector (CMI) | 
• Member of IAHI, NYSAHI, WAHI, AAREI, OHREIA
• InterNACHI Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)
• DOE Energy Score Assessor, BPI Certified (Building Performance Institute)
• CRT – Certified Residential Thermographer
• NADRA Certified – Deck & Railing Safety and Installation
• CLIPP – Certified Living in Place Professional

 Training & Instruction Roles

• ASHI Mentor | Instructor at The ASHI School
• Lead Instructor – Heartland Education & Training Group
• Instructor – Triton College, Prairie State College, Governors State University ICA, ATI, AHIT, DSDT College 
• Technical Trainer – AHIT, ATI, ICA
• Guest Host – House Talk on WJOL 1340 AM
• Public Speaker – Trade shows, conferences, and CE events nationwide

 Leadership & Industry Involvement

• President, Board Member, and Education Director – NIC-ASHI (Northern Illinois Chapter of ASHI / Illinois ASHI)
• Vendor Coordinator – NIC-ASHI Conferences and Events
• Member – InterNACHI, IAHI, WAHI, NYSAHI, AAREI
• Founder/Owner –
  • Heartland Home Inspections, Inc.
  • Heartland Education & Training Group, LLC
  • Smart Inspector Tools, LLC
  • S.T.A.T. – The Inspector’s Wingman (Specialized Tools and Tactics)

 A Passion for Tools, People, and Purpose

Outside the classroom and field, you might recognize me from industry trade shows, where I represent Smart Inspector Tools, my company focused on providing quality inspection tools to make our work safer, more efficient, and more profitable.

I’m also an avid outdoorsman with a deep love for hunting, fishing, and travel. I consider myself a BBQ-smoking enthusiast and culinary explorer, always experimenting with new recipes and bringing people together through food and storytelling.

Above all, I truly believe in giving back to the profession. Whether through mentorship, tools, or training, this is my calling, this is why I do this, I strive to help the next generation of inspectors build confidence, competence, and a strong foundation for success.

Bob has spent the balance of his career in the construction industry. He started out as a laborer in his father’s construction company “Domes America”; where he worked his way through the ranks from laborer to lead carpenter and project manager. Bob spent his time building throughout the United States and he spent 5 years in the People Republic of China building Geodesic Domes. Bob Finished his bachelor’s degree at the University of Oregon. Bob started A1 Property Inspection in 2014, and the business has grown steadily from its inception. A1 Property has added additional ancillary services to serve his clients better and become a one stop shop.

Bob is currently an active member of the Rotary Club of Downers Grove; he also teaches Home Inspection with Heartland Education services and is the Secretary for NIC-ASHI which is a Non-profit organization that promotes the education for home inspectors. NIC-ASHI serves its members and the home inspection community in Northern Illinois with education, dinner meetings, conventions and continuing education classes for state licensure.

Bob has spent his career in construction and has a deep understanding of construction processes for building residential and commercial, he enjoys imparting this knowledge to others and looks to grow the organizations that he is a part of.

Bob is outgoing, and enjoys interaction between individuals. He has hosted several new inspectors for “Ride Along” and has helped several individuals get into the Home Inspection industry. He is interested in assisting new home buyers and evaluating properties they are looking to purchase.

What David enjoys most about being a home inspector is helping first-time homebuyers feel confident, comfortable, and well-informed about one of the biggest purchases of their lives. He takes pride in breaking down complex home systems in a way that’s clear and easy to understand, always putting his clients at ease during the inspection process.

Before entering the inspection field, David spent 12 years with a large industrial supply company, where he sharpened his customer service and problem-solving skills. Since 2014, he has also gained hands-on experience in property management, further expanding his knowledge of home systems and maintenance.

A proud lifelong Chicagoan, David is a graduate of Gordon Tech High School and the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He lives in Portage Park with his family and is a father of all boys. David is actively involved in his community as a basketball coach at St. Viator Elementary School and serves on the Athletic Board.

David also has a deep passion for teaching and mentoring new home inspectors. He finds great fulfillment in sharing his knowledge and experience with the next generation of professionals entering the field.

In his free time, David enjoys woodworking, collecting vinyl records, and cheering on Tottenham Hotspur Football Club.

I am a licensed Home Inspector serving both Illinois and Indiana, with extensive experience in training and teaching home inspectors throughout the Midwest. My background spans across home remodeling, and general contracting for both residential and commercial construction projects. In addition to my inspection services, I have hands-on experience in real estate investing, giving me a comprehensive understanding of property
conditions from both an inspector’s and an investor’s perspective.

Beyond home inspections, I am also a Licensed Pest Control Operator through Chicagoland Pest Services, Inc., certified in both Illinois and Indiana. I hold licensure as a Radon Measurement Professional for residential and commercial properties in Illinois, Indiana, and nationally through AARST-NRPP.

My multi-disciplinary expertise allows me to provide thorough, knowledgeable, and well-rounded property evaluations, helping clients make informed decisions with confidence.

• Illinois Licensed Home Inspector Entity # 451.001026, Illinois Licensed Home Inspector #450.011166, Indiana Licensed Home Inspector #HI01400121
• ASHI Member #266055 (American Society of Home Inspectors), ASHI ACI (ASHI Certified Inspector), BVI, (Background Verified Inspector).
• InterNACHI member #5043020, InterNACHI CMI (Certified Master Inspector)
• Illinois Lead Instructor. ICA Field Instructor Trainer. CRT, Certified Residential Thermographer
• NIC-ASHI Treasurer (The Northern Illinois Chapter of the American Society of Home Inspectors)
• Licensed Radon Measurement Professional, (residential, commercial and schools), Illinois License #RNI2015226, Indiana License #RTP00795, NRPP License #108509-RMP.
• AARST Member #A7491, (The American Association of Radon Scientist and Technologists)
• IEA Member, (Indoor Environmental Association)
• Licensed Pest Control Technician and Operator, Illinois License #052-056249 Indiana License #F215095
• GCPMA, Board Member, (The Greater Chicago Pest Management Alliance)

With 20 years of expertise and over 17,000 inspections completed, Russ Valleyfield is a trusted authority in residential property assessments. Specializing in identifying defects, safety hazards, and maintenance needs, he is committed to delivering thorough, accurate, and detailed inspection reports. Known for going above and beyond, Russ is recognized for uncovering hidden issues that ensure homeowners’ safety and peace of mind.

A skilled communicator, Russ excels in client consultation, providing clear recommendations and fostering trust with homeowners. He holds certifications in mold inspection and wood-destroying insect (WDI) inspection, equipping him to address a broader range of property concerns with precision and expertise.

A lifelong Chicagoan, as an avid outdoorsman, Russ embraces the freedom and flexibility his career in home inspection offers, allowing him to explore new places while serving a wide range of clients. His passion for nature and travel complements his dedication to providing exceptional service, ensuring every homeowner feels confident and informed about their property.

Recently, Russ has discovered a passion for instructing and is dedicated to developing the next generation of home inspectors. By sharing his wealth of experience, specialized knowledge, and practical insights, he is committed to helping aspiring inspectors build successful careers and uphold the highest industry standards.

Professional Experience

• Heartland Education & Training Group

Palos Hills Il 01/2024 – Present

• Licensed Home Inspector, Pinnacle Home Inspection Services
  Wilmette, Illinois | 03/2023 – Present
• Licensed Home Inspector, First Choice Inspectors
  03/2017 – 03/2023
• Licensed Home Inspector, Kerfin Inspection Inc.
  Palos Heights, Illinois | 05/2005 – 03/2017

Credentials and Certifications

• Illinois Home Inspector License
• Mold Inspection Certification
• Wood-Destroying Insect (WDI) Certification

Russ combines his extensive experience, specialized certifications, love for the outdoors, and newfound enthusiasm for instruction to bring unparalleled value and safety to home inspectors while shaping the future of the home inspection industry. As a member of NIC-ASHI Russ is always willing to attend conferences and seminars meetings to keep current on the latest Home Inspection trends.

ASHI Certified Inspector | Certified Master Inspector® | InterNACHI CPI® | U.S. Army Veteran

Matthew Hawley is the owner and general manager of Hawley Home Inspections LLC, a veteran-owned, family-operated company based in Pocahontas, Illinois. Since 2010, he has proudly served the St. Louis Metro area and Southwestern Illinois, providing trusted, thorough home inspection services to homebuyers, sellers, and real estate professionals.

With over 15 years of experience in the home inspection industry, Matthew is a U.S. Army veteran and holds multiple top-tier certifications, including:

• ASHI Certified Inspector (ACI)
• Certified Master Inspector®
• Certified Professional Inspector® (CPI) – InterNACHI
• Illinois-Licensed Home Inspector & Radon Tester

Matthew is known not only for his professionalism and attention to detail, but also for his strong belief in education, mentorship, and service. He has a true passion for teaching new inspectors and is always willing to lend a hand to those starting their careers. Whether through direct mentorship, advice, or field support, he actively contributes to the next generation of inspection professionals.

Hawley Home Inspections LLC provides a full range of high-quality services, including:

• Residential Home Inspections
• Radon Testing
• Sewer Scope Inspections
• Air Quality & Mold Testing
• Termite / Wood-Destroying Insect (WDI) Inspections
• Thermal Imaging
• Well Water Analysis
• Gas Leak Detection
• Septic System Inspections
• Pool Inspections

With a keen eye for detail and a passion for helping others, Paul E. Anderson has built a career dedicated to ensuring homes are safe, sound, and up to standard. A professional home inspector since 2009, Paul holds multiple certifications, including ASHI Certified Inspector (2015), Certified Mold Inspector & Assessor, and Commercial Lite Inspector, among others. His expertise spans residential and commercial inspections, mold assessment, wood-destroying organisms, pools, and spas—making him a trusted resource in the industry.

Beyond the field, Paul is committed to educating and mentoring the next generation of home inspectors. As a Field Instructor for AHIT and Heartland Education Group, he brings real-world experience into the classroom, ensuring new inspectors gain both the technical skills and critical thinking necessary to succeed. His hands-on approach and depth of knowledge make him a sought-after instructor in the home inspection community.

A lifelong learner, Paul’s background includes coursework in woodworking, metals, drafting, and automotive mechanics, which further enhances his ability to assess and understand the structures he inspects. His blend of practical experience and teaching expertise allows him to bridge the gap between theory and real-world application.

Whether he’s inspecting a home, mentoring future inspectors, or staying up-to-date with the latest industry standards, Paul remains dedicated to raising the bar for home inspection and education.

Based in Glen Ellyn, IL | Hands-on expertise in construction & mechanics | Passionate about teaching, mentoring, and home safety

Joe Richmond is a seasoned Property Inspector, Architectural Draftsman, Renovation Consultant, and Educator with 25+ years of experience in real estate evaluation, architectural drafting, and renovation consulting. As a Licensed Home Inspector in Illinois and Indiana, he has played a crucial role in advising homeowners, investors, and developers on property conditions, safety, and functionality.

With a Master’s degree in Workforce Education and Development from Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, Joe combines technical expertise with a passion for mentorship, having served as an Adjunct Instructor in Interior Design and AutoCAD. His ability to communicate complex architectural and renovation concepts has made him a sought-after speaker on homebuyer and investor panels.

Joe has consulted on over $30 million in residential and commercial renovation projects, collaborating with property buyers, owners, architects, contractors, and investors to optimize project efficiency and return on investment. His professional affiliations include membership in the Association of Licensed Architects (ALA), the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI), and NCARB as an Associate Member.

Beyond his professional career, Joe is deeply involved in community development. He has volunteered for Habitat for Humanity, contributed to the Education Committee of Archiplan International, Ltd., and led local education initiatives as Chicago Public School Elementary Local School Council Chair at Barnard Elementary. His commitment to mentorship is further reflected in his role as a Youth Football and Basketball Coach.

A former semi-professional basketball player in the American Basketball Association (ABA) and a Division I football player for the Southern Illinois University Salukis, Joe brings leadership, discipline, and a collaborative spirit to every endeavor.

Steven W. Mix is the owner of Shamrock Home Inspections and Shamrock Radon Solutions, proudly serving Northeast Indiana since 2016. As an ASHI Certified Inspector and Indiana Licensed Home Inspector (#HI01600075), Steven specializes in delivering thorough residential and commercial inspections that follow the ASHI Standards of Practice, helping clients make confident, informed decisions in their real estate transactions.

In addition to his inspection expertise, Steven holds certifications in Radon Testing, Radon Mitigation, and is licensed for Pest Inspections in Indiana (License #B: 268200, T: F266943). His inspection process includes detailed evaluations, clear communication, and outstanding customer service — from scheduling and coordinating services to providing follow-up support after the inspection.

Before launching Shamrock Home Inspections, Steven built a career in the manufacturing sector with BF Goodrich in Woodburn, Indiana, working as a C1 PQAI Inspector for over two decades. There, he developed a meticulous eye for detail through auditing, startup approvals, quality control, and process documentation.

Today, Steven continues to blend technical precision with a customer-first mindset, offering services such as:

• Residential & Commercial Inspections
• Radon Testing & Mitigation
• Termite/WDI Inspections
• Air Quality Testing
• Environmental Services Coordination

A lifelong resident of Garrett, Indiana, Steven is dedicated to helping clients protect their investments while maintaining the highest professional standards in the home inspection industry.