House Inspector/General Caretaker (Portland, Augusta: mortgage, buyer, inspectors)

[thisiswater]

Hi all -- As my husband and I proceed with our purchase of a cabin on China lake, we need to find a good
inspector. We'll be walking through with him/her. Any recommendations and cost estimates for a small (950 sq ft) house most appreciated.

Once we get past the inspection, we'll want to meet someone who can help stack wood, keep the road the the cabin plowed in winter, and generally be available for emergencies when we are not there. Again, what do
others pay for these services?

Thanks in advance for your referrals!

[WhoFanMe]

Your buyer agent is a good resource, I give my clients a list of 5 or 6 that I've worked with, but they are free to choose whomever they'd like. Your agent should also attend so that they can consult with you on which repairs or financial concessions from the seller you should request and then negotiate. Many inspectors are 5-7 days booked, if you have a tight contingency deadline, that makes it challenging.

Cost will vary depending upon what tests you are performing. I would assume that you'll need water tested including uranium and radon, air tested in the lowest area that could be living space (radon), a septic inspection and general building inspection. In Greater Portland, that might run between $650 and $1000 or more.

[Maineac]

You should be able to find one in the Augusta area - the closest "metro" to China Lake. If I wanted to make sure, since "inspectors" first popped up with little qualification or licensure, I'd call an area "local" (meaning NOT Bank of America) bank mortgage department and ask if they have anyone "approved" on their list. If you're planning on a mortgage, start with your own bank.

[thisiswater]

Thanks to both of you. I just posted another query re: finding a good area bank. In the spirit of doing as much as we can locally.