Home inspections reveal the invisible stories behind every property—the good, the bad, and sometimes the downright dangerous. In this episode, we chat with Alex Buehler of Buehler Inspections to uncover surprising insights from his work in the field and learn what homeowners and buyers should really be watching for.
From Retail to Rooflines: Alex’s Journey to Home Inspection
Alex’s path into the industry was unexpected. After leaving his retail management job without a plan, he received a call from a Tulsa-based inspection company that changed everything. Today, Alex inspects hundreds of homes each year in Topeka and surrounding areas. He even earned the nickname “The Pie Guy” thanks to his unique branding approach—bringing Pies to inspections.
Structural Surprises and Safety Hazards
During inspections, Alex often encounters troubling DIY work. One of the most shocking examples? A downtown Topeka home where a central beam supporting the house had been cut to install a laundry chute—compromising the entire structure. These discoveries underscore the importance of proper construction practices and highlight the risks of unchecked modifications.
Common Issues in Everyday Homes
Even well-maintained homes typically have a laundry list of smaller issues. Missing GFCI outlets near water sources, improperly vented bathroom fans, and window wood rot from bad flashing are just a few of the common findings Alex sees in nearly every report. His takeaway: nearly all homes need attention, but not all issues are deal-breakers.
Code vs. Safety: What Home Inspections Really Mean
Alex breaks down the difference between home inspections and code inspections. While code inspectors ensure homes meet current building regulations, home inspectors assess functionality and safety. That’s why older homes aren’t automatically “failing”—they’re judged on whether systems work and whether they pose a risk, not on whether they meet modern code.
No Perfect Homes—and That’s Okay
Out of thousands of inspections, Alex has found only two homes with no issues. This perspective helps buyers understand that inspection reports aren’t meant to scare—they’re meant to inform. Knowing what’s normal vs. what’s a red flag is key to making confident home decisions.
Business Lessons from “The Pie Guy”
For entrepreneurs, Alex offers encouraging advice: it takes about three years to gain traction in a niche business. His story shows how great service, community connection, and a memorable brand can turn a small idea into a successful, respected business. Whether you're a homeowner or a hustler, this episode is packed with insights to take with you.
About the Author:
The above article What Your Topeka House Is Hiding From You with Alex Buehler on Topeka Insider was written by Justin Armbruster of the Armbruster Team at Genesis, LLC, REALTORS®, local leaders in Topeka real estate, digital marketing, and social media. You can contact Justin Armbruster at 785-260-4384. He has helped hundreds of people buy and sell homes in the Topeka area for years, and would love the opportunity to help you as well. Follow him on Instagram and connect!