About Us
You‘re not just buying a home inspection – you’re buying years of experience.
Skilled Inspectors
With a dedicated team of highly trained home inspection professionals, we’re able to provide timely and dependable service that is trusted throughout Rhode Island and Massachusetts.
Great Support
We strive to provide every answer that we possibly can, fielding questions from our clients before, during, and after the inspection—we’re one phone call away for as long as you need our help.
Inspection Walkthrough
You are strongly encouraged to attend the home inspection, putting the property’s condition into perspective by having an inspector walk you through each major finding in person.
Brian Seeley
Brian Seeley has been inspecting homes since 2003, and he also has an extensive background in real estate appraisal—a perspective that has given him substantial insight into how to assess, preserve, and improve the condition of a home. Rounding out Brian’s industry experience is several years of work as an electrician, further reinforcing his expansive knowledge of home construction. Brian approaches his work with the utmost seriousness, but he’s always good at lightening the mood with his sense of humor, and you can count on him to communicate his knowledge patiently and respectfully.
- Licensed as a Rhode Island Home Inspector
- Electrical Technology Associates of Science Degree from The New England Institute of Technology
- Studied business at Bryant College.
- Completed the American Home Inspectors Training Institutes’ Master Home Inspector Course
- Completed The Conventional Onsite Wastewater System Inspection Class offered by the University of Rhode Island’s Cooperative Extension
- Successfully completed the Pest Control Certification course offered by Rhode Island DEM, with a specialty in Wood-Destroying Insects.
- Completed the International Home Inspection Association courses for Deck Inspections and Inspection Standards.
- For Appraisal Continuing Education Classes, Brian completed courses for Code of Ethics, Condominium Law, Contract Law, Lead Paint Hazards, and Understanding Exterior Construction and Components.
- Completed Kohler Service Training for Residential/Commercial Generators and Transfer Switches
Richard “Shunny” Ross
Shunny is known for his cool and collected demeanor, rising up to every challenge that a home may present so that he can kindly and effectively communicate the strengths and weaknesses in a home’s condition. Shunny has substantial experience in home restoration, notably restoring a 95-year-old gambrel colonial home. Shunny also owns his own custom woodworking business, and he has decades of experience in financial and client services.
- Licensed as a Rhode Island and Massachusetts Home Inspector
- Bachelor of Science in Finance and Quantitative Methods, Babson College
- Graduate of American Home Inspectors Training, Home Inspection Master Course
- Certified Inspector for Conventional Onsite Wastewater Systems, State of Rhode Island
- Wood-Destroying Insect Inspection Certification; University of Rhode Island
- National Radon Safety Board and State of Rhode Island Licensed Radon Measurement Specialist
- Successfully completed the National Home Inspector Examination
- Field training for 8 months with experienced Hearthstone inspectors prior to becoming an established inspector with the company
Luke Hopton
Luke is as reliable as they come, and his easy-going demeanor always helps our clients feel right at home. Writing is Luke’s passion and a natural talent, and we’re glad to have him as our Radon Manager, Marketing Manager, and Social Media Director—staying engaged with our clients and helping to ensure smooth operations across the board. Luke has previous management experience in the lodging and hospitality industry, and he is a former Youth Group leader at a local church.
- Bachelor of Science in History, Liberty University
- Associates of Arts Degree, Community College of Rhode Island
- Various Cyber Security Courses, including Information Assurance and Database Management from Norwich University
- Mold Inspection course from the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors
- Radon Measurement Proficiency Course From Rutgers University
- Advanced Radon Measurement Service Provider course from the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors.
About our Founder
Our founder, Frank Hopton, was a man of unwavering faith, family values, and a fierce entrepreneurial spirit. A local to Rhode Island, Frank started multiple successful businesses after he proudly served in the U.S. Navy and graduated from the University of Rhode Island. His vision was to build a reputable home inspection company known for unmatched customer service and professionalism. Frank’s commitment to exceeding client expectations and fostering strong relationships with realtors quickly earned Hearthstone a reputation for excellence and integrity.
Frank’s hands-on approach and genuine care for his clients and employees created a culture of trust and reliability that became the hallmark of our parent company Hearthstone Inspection Services. A devout Christian and beloved family man, Frank balanced his professional endeavors with his love for the outdoors and personal growth. His legacy of dedication, kindness, and exceptional leadership continues to inspire the company and the lives of those who knew him.
Jared Hopton
Home Inspector and General Manager
Jared is dedicated to providing exceptional customer service and strong leadership in the home inspection industry. Growing up in a family deeply involved in the business, Jared developed a profound understanding of the field from a young age. As a licensed Home Inspector in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Vermont, he leads by example, setting high standards for service and integrity.
- Licensed as a Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Vermont Home Inspector
- Bachelor of Arts in History, University of Rhode Island
- Master of Business Administration (in progress), University of Massachusetts - Amherst Isenberg School of Management
- Graduate of American Home Inspectors Training Course
- National Home Inspector Examination
- Former U.S. Army Officer and Combat Veteran
Mark Clements
Senior Home Inspector
Mark is in this line of work to help others, and there’s nothing he loves more than being in a position to teach valuable knowledge to families who are trying to protect their interests when buying a home. Mark’s customer-oriented approach is immensely appreciated by his clients, and he is often commended for his kindness and patience. Mark has completed thousands of residential and commercial property inspections, and he has hands-on experience in home construction as a flooring specialist.
- Licensed as a Rhode Island and Massachusetts Home Inspector
- Graduate of Bishop Stang High School in Dartmouth Massachusetts
- Architectural Drafting and Interior Design Certifications at the Hall Institute.
- Completed the American Home Inspectors Training Institutes’ Master Home Inspector Course
- Completed the National and Massachusetts home inspector exams
- Completed the National Radon Safety Board exam and is a licensed radon measurement technician
- Completed the Massachusetts Title V course through New England Interstate Water Pollution Control Commission
- Completed requirements for Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection’s Title V inspector license
- Many continuing education and re-certification classes for radon, wood-destroying insects, and home inspection through Rutgers Agriculture and Natural Resources school, National Radon Safety Board, New England Pest Management Association, American Society of Home Inspectors, Tiger Lecture Series, Massasoit Community College and McKissock online training programs
Caroline Linhares
Customer Relations Manager
With a background in real estate, Caroline is Hearthstone’s Customer Relations Manager. As a licensed Real Estate Agent, she brings a unique perspective and understanding to ensure a seamless experience for all our agents and clients. Beyond her professional expertise, she is a loving mom of two energetic toddlers, balancing her career with the joys of motherhood. Caroline’s commitment to excellence and genuine care shines through in every interaction, making her the perfect guide for your home inspection journey.
- Licensed as a Real Estate Agent in the State of Rhode Island
- Bachelor’s in Psychology, Rhode Island College
- Master’s in Mental Health Counseling, Rhode Island College