About Us
Top Notch is a family owned and operated business serving the Big Island & Maui.
Our goal is to provide both the client and the agent with the simplest and absolute best experience possible. The latest technology, an extremely detailed and informative inspection, exceptional customer service and the ability to communicate effectively are the cornerstones of Top Notch Home Inspections.
We are fully Certified, Licensed and Insured, and all of our inspectors have passed the National Home Inspection Examination. See what people are saying about Top Notch!
The Top Notch Team
Karl Stump
Lead Inspector/Owner
Karl grew up watching and helping his father with construction and home remolding projects. He will tell you “construction is in my blood!” He was taught by example from an early age to do his absolute best and take the utmost pride in his work.
As soon as he was old enough, he started his own successful home improvement business in his hometown of Nashville, TN. When he moved to the Big Island in 2015 he brought those skills, helping people with their home maintenance needs. All of his clients were most impressed with his level of skill, attention to detail, reliability and communication.
He noticed and educated himself on Hawaii’s unique construction techniques due to its warm and moist climates. Although not required by the state, he became a certified home inspector and passed the National Home Inspection Exam. These efforts reflect his high level of dedication and commitment to the home inspection industry.
Many people don’t know that Karl is also a commercial helicopter & airplane pilot with over 5000 hours of flight time. He enjoys giving helicopter tours part time around the beautiful Big Island of Hawaii to this day. This speaks to his ability to stay focused under pressure and handle many tasks to a high level of skill and accuracy.
Karl’s real passion has become helping his clients feel confident with their home purchase. Together with his wife Bailee and his team of inspectors, he strives to ensure the best possible experience for each and every one of his clients.
Aaron Burns
Certified Professional Inspector
Aaron’s thoroughness, attention to detail, and pride of workmanship has shaped his career as a Home Inspector. His experience and knowledge in construction began at a very young age since Aaron’s father, an accomplished contractor, was always guiding and encouraging Aaron to gain the skills needed for countless projects.
Out of high school, Aaron attended a five-year apprenticeship in HVAC/sheet metal which led to a 15-year career in the industry. As a foreman in his home state of California, he led projects on a scale from custom high-end homes, hospitals, airports, to universities.
Once moving to the Big Island, he was motivated to follow his passion and acquired abilities to become a Certified National Home Inspector. Aaron truly loves being able to join in the process with his clients in buying or selling their homes since it is such an exciting and very important time for them.
On a personal note, he spends time with his wife and two kiddos soaking up the much-appreciated island life. You can catch them scuba diving, hiking, surfing, spearfishing, and much more. Once you meet Aaron you’ll instantly notice how his professionalism accompanied by his aloha spirit makes him a wonderful team member for Top Notch!
Ben Thomas
Certified Professional Inspector
Ultimately, the draw of one of his favorite hobbies, surfing, brought him to Hawaii. He initially started remolding homes and doing handyman work around the Kona area. He then came upon a new way to tie together his love for construction, real estate, and customer service by becoming a home inspector. His knowledge of home maintenance paired with his excellent communication skills & customer service background makes him a great addition to the Top Notch Team.
Frankie Martin-Howe
Certified Professional Inspector
Frankie, hailing proudly from the vibrant district of Puna on the Big Island, discovered her fervor for the intricate world of homes while immersed in the role of a Property Manager. As her journey unfolded, transitioning into home ownership kindled a newfound passion, steering her towards a fulfilling career as a home inspector.
Endowed with an extraordinary eye for detail and an unwavering can-do attitude, Frankie emerges as a valuable asset to our team. Her professional background in property management not only honed her adeptness at communication and customer service but also positioned her as a key overseer of numerous remodel and construction projects for discerning clients.
Beyond her professional pursuits, Frankie finds solace and joy in the embrace of nature. Whether toiling on the family farm, pushing her limits in the gym, gracefully paddling through serene waters, or embarking on spirited camping escapades with her cherished ones and furry companions, Frankie epitomizes an individual deeply connected to the enriching tapestry of the outdoors.
Marcos Portes
Client Coordinator & Office Manager
Along with amazing inspections, Top Notch also has the best customer service and communication in the industry.
Our fantastic Office Manager, Marcos, graduated with a degree in Languages and Linguistics and started his work experience with teaching, however he found himself drawn to business. Marcos worked as a Production Manager, Quality Manager and Commercial Sales/Client Support for a European company for 6 years. During that time he was able to travel to several European countries and Vietnam and enjoys learning about different cultures. With his incredible communication skills, he is able to make sure that every client and agent have the most smooth and enjoyable experience possible.
Marcos was born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and moved to the state of Minas Gerais as a child. Growing up he has great memories of spending time with family and friends often during all-day barbecues. He has always enjoyed outdoor activities and his favorite times have been camping with his son on the mountain near his childhood home.
Marcos and his wife Vickie moved to Hilo in 2019 and are so grateful to live in an area where they can spend time in the ocean on weekends and enjoying the local Aloha way of living!
Bailee Stump
Business Manager
Bailee has been a huge catalyst for Top Notch’s success. In the early years of Top Notch’s growth, Bailee was the sole face of customer service. Her involvement and efforts can not be overstated and are in large part the reason for our privilege to be considered the Island’s premier inspection company.
Today she has stepped back from the front lines of scheduling inspections and now leads human resources, marketing, business development, and management. With her experience and expertise in the home inspection industry, Bailee continues to have a strong role in leadership and is essential for keeping things running behind the scenes.
Bailee is not only a Certified Detoxification Specialist, but previously ran a very successful life coaching business. She also has a background in business management, marketing and public relations.
She looks forward to building new business relationships and serving you by offering the best home inspection experience possible!