Home inspector recommendation in Granger/Mishawaka Area (real estate, house)

[sgear]

We are about to try and finalize an offer in Granger area, and curious of recommendations for a house inspector in the area, and a guess at approximate cost to inspect a 1400 sq foot ranch home... Any names or companies, or experiences people had in this area they want to share?

[XrayEyes]

I can't recommend a particular inspector, but my experience suggests think twice if the house was built by Weiss Homes.

[sgear]

Pretty sure it's not a weiss, it's in an older sub-division, built in the mid 90's like 94 for this house, Owner thought the guys name was like Mark Ruff or Rough.....something like that.... Ring a bell with anyone?

[XrayEyes]

Depending on how thorough the inspection is, you should expect to pay $200-$500 for a good home buyer inspection. Ask to see a sample report. A professional inspection will produce a professional report covering all areas, structural, insulative, mechanical, electrical, etc. It should be designed to inform you of anything that may need replacement soon even if it is in working order. A good home inspector often has had prior experience as a builder.

Also, consider the following:

• radon test
• water quality test
• septic tank emptied and inspect drain field
• ask for at least 3 references, and call every one of them.

The inspection is not an area worth saving an extra hundred bucks when you are about to commit to thousands. He is hired by you, not the seller or real estate agent (not even your buyer's agent). You want an inspector who is looking to please you, even if all he can find are relatively small things to justify his fee.