Comprehensive Home Inspections Across Grayson County, TX
From the historic streets of Sherman and Denison to the booming Lake Texoma waterfront and rapidly growing communities like Van Alstyne, Elite Inspection Group provides expert home inspection services throughout Grayson County. With over a decade of experience in North Texas and intimate knowledge of the unique challenges posed by expansive clay soil, Lake Texoma properties, and rural acreage, we’re the trusted choice for homebuyers, sellers, and investors across this dynamic county.
Whether you’re purchasing a historic home in downtown Sherman, a lakefront retreat on Lake Texoma, or new construction in one of the county’s massive master-planned developments like Cottonwood or Mantua, we deliver peace of mind through thorough, technology-driven inspections. Call 469-818-5500 to schedule your inspection today.
Scheduling
Per Week
Warranty

Grayson County Cities We Serve:
- Sherman – County Seat
- Denison – Lake Texoma Gateway
- Van Alstyne – Fast Growing
- Pottsboro – Waterfront Community
- Whitesboro
- Howe
- Whitewright
- Gunter
- Tom Bean
- Bells
- Tioga
- All unincorporated areas
Deep Knowledge of Grayson County’s Diverse Communities

Grayson County was founded in 1846, the same year Texas joined the Union, and named after Peter Wagener Grayson, an attorney general of the Republic of Texas. Today, with a population projected at 154,090 in 2025, the county is experiencing rapid transformation from its agricultural roots into one of North Texas’s fastest-growing regions.
Located approximately 65 miles north of Dallas along the Red River and home to the massive 89,000-acre Lake Texoma reservoir, Grayson County offers an exceptional mix of urban amenities in Sherman, historic charm in Denison, explosive growth in Van Alstyne, and recreational paradise along Lake Texoma’s shores.
Major Communities & Characteristics
Sherman (49,813) – The county seat features historic downtown, Austin College (founded 1849), Texoma Medical Center, and a blend of established neighborhoods and major new developments like Three Oaks.
Denison (24,927) – Founded in 1872 as a railroad town, Denison boasts a Great American Main Street Award-winning downtown, the Eisenhower Birthplace, and prime Lake Texoma access.
Van Alstyne (5,800) – This fast-growing city between Sherman and Collin County is home to Mantua, a planned 6,000-home development, and numerous master-planned communities attracting DFW commuters seeking affordability.
Pottsboro (2,500) – A Lake Texoma waterfront hub where vacation homes and permanent residences mix, offering marina access and a laid-back lake lifestyle.
Understanding Grayson County’s Expansive Clay Soil Challenge
The single most important factor affecting homes in Grayson County is the region’s highly expansive clay soil. Composed of Blackland Prairie and Eagle Ford formations, this clay can gain or lose up to 75% of its original volume with moisture changes—making it some of the most expansive soil in the United States.
Critical Foundation Concerns in Grayson County:
- Seasonal Movement: Foundations heave during wet springs and settle during dry summers as clay expands and contracts
- Drought Impact: Extended dry periods cause severe shrinkage, pulling support away from foundations
- Drainage Critical: Improper drainage concentrates moisture on one side, causing differential movement and cracking
- Pier and Beam Vulnerability: Older homes in Sherman and Denison with pier and beam foundations face unique settlement challenges
- Slab Stress: Modern slab foundations experience stress fractures as soil beneath shifts unevenly
Our Foundation Inspection Advantage: Elite Inspection Group uses the Zip Level Pro-2000, which measures foundation elevation to 1/10th of an inch accuracy. This precision is essential in Grayson County, where even minor elevation changes signal problematic soil movement. We document current conditions, helping you understand the foundation’s stability before you buy.

Climate Factors Affecting Homes:
- Extreme Heat: Summer temps regularly hit 95-100°F, stressing HVAC systems
- Hail Storms: North Texas hail corridor means frequent roof damage
- Tornado Risk: Tornado Alley brings severe weather concerns
- Winter Freezes: Red River valley cold fronts can damage plumbing and HVAC
- Lake Flooding: Low-lying areas near Lake Texoma face flood risks
Specialized Lake Texoma Waterfront Property Inspections
Lake Texoma is one of Grayson County’s greatest assets—an 89,000-acre reservoir straddling the Texas-Oklahoma border that draws thousands of residents and vacationers. With a $4 billion south shore development underway and waterfront property values ranging from $300,000 to over $1 million, lake homes require specialized inspection expertise.

Our Lake Property Inspection Includes:
- Flood Zone Verification: We confirm FEMA flood zone status and insurance requirements
- Dock & Marine Structure Inspection: Structural integrity, decking condition, and Corps of Engineers permit compliance
- Shoreline Erosion Assessment: Evaluate erosion, stabilization measures, and long-term property boundary concerns
- Moisture Intrusion: Enhanced moisture and mold risk checks in humid lakefront environments
- Septic System Evaluation: Many lake properties rely on septic systems requiring specialized inspection
- Water Access Rights: Verification of private vs. public shoreline access and easements
- Boat House Structures: Inspection of boat houses, covered docks, and waterside outbuildings
With Lake Texoma managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, properties face unique regulations on docks, shoreline alterations, and water usage. Our inspectors understand these requirements and help you identify compliance issues before purchase.
Comprehensive Home Inspection Services for Grayson County
Pre-Purchase Inspections
Buying a home in Grayson County’s competitive market? Our comprehensive pre-purchase inspections cover every system from foundation to roof, with special attention to expansive clay soil concerns. Using the Zip Level Pro-2000 and thermal imaging, we provide the detailed information you need to negotiate confidently.
Typical Duration: 2.5-4 hours for standard homes, 4-6 hours for lakefront or large acreage properties.
New Construction Inspections
With massive developments like Cottonwood (4,000 lots), Mantua (6,000 homes), and projects by D.R. Horton, K. Hovnanian, and Highland Homes, Grayson County is experiencing unprecedented new construction. Our new build inspections verify quality control before your builder’s warranty begins.
Major Builders We Inspect: D.R. Horton, K. Hovnanian Homes, Highland Homes, William Taylor Custom Homes, Tilson, Historymaker Homes, Holley Jolly Homes.
Pre-Listing Inspections
Selling your Grayson County home? A pre-listing inspection identifies issues before buyers discover them, allowing you to make repairs on your terms or price accordingly. In markets where foundation concerns are common, a clean inspection report builds buyer confidence.
Foundation-Focused Inspections
Given Grayson County’s severe expansive clay soil conditions, foundation health is critical. Our inspections include precision elevation mapping, crack pattern analysis, drainage evaluation, and soil moisture assessment. We help you understand if visible cracks are cosmetic or structural.
Rural & Acreage Property Inspections
Grayson County’s rural areas in Tioga, Tom Bean, Bells, and unincorporated regions offer one-acre lots, barndominiums, and country estates. Our rural inspections cover well water systems, septic tanks, outbuildings, propane systems, electrical service adequacy, and road access.
11th Month Warranty Inspections
Builder warranties in Texas typically last one year. Before your warranty expires, our 11th-month inspection identifies defects covered under warranty, ensuring issues are documented and repaired at the builder’s expense. Critical in new developments where foundation settlement may take time to appear.
Cities We Serve in Grayson County, TX
Elite Inspection Group proudly serves every community in Grayson County, from the urban centers of Sherman and Denison to the smallest rural towns and unincorporated areas. Click on linked cities for detailed local information.
Sherman
Population: 49,813
County seat and largest city. Historic downtown, Austin College, Three Oaks development, established neighborhoods.
Denison
Population: 24,927
Lake Texoma gateway, birthplace of President Eisenhower, Great American Main Street Award winner, waterfront access.
Van Alstyne
Population: 5,800
Fast-growing with Mantua (6,000 homes), Sanford Park, Greywood Heights. DFW commuters seeking affordability.
Pottsboro
Population: 2,500
Lake Texoma waterfront community, marina access, vacation and permanent homes, recreational living.
Whitesboro
Population: 4,200
Historic downtown square, established neighborhoods, small-town character.
Howe
Population: 3,200
Rural community with excellent schools, newer subdivisions, agricultural heritage.
Whitewright
Population: 1,600
Small town with farming roots, rural setting, affordable housing.
Gunter
Population: 1,900
Growing town in southern county, new construction, Collin County proximity.
Tom Bean
Population: 1,100
Small agricultural community, rural character, country living.
Bells
Population: 1,600
Western Grayson County community, rural setting, small-town atmosphere.
Tioga
Population: 900
Rural town with barndominium developments, one-acre lots, country estates.
Unincorporated Areas
We serve all unincorporated communities including Collinsville, Sadler, Southmayd, Dorchester, and rural areas countywide.
Grayson County’s Explosive Growth: Major New Developments
Grayson County is experiencing unprecedented development as the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex expands north. Multi-billion dollar projects are transforming the county from agricultural and recreational land into major residential growth centers.
Cottonwood Development
This massive 1,500-acre master-planned community off US Highway 75 will include 4,000 single-family lots, 1,450 rental units, and 250,000 square feet of commercial space. Developed by Centurion American, it represents one of the largest developments in North Texas.
Mantua (Van Alstyne)
Between Van Alstyne and Anna, this 2,940-acre Risland development will bring 6,000 residential homes plus commercial development. This project alone will double Van Alstyne’s population.
Lake Texoma South Shore
A $4 billion, 3,100-acre project on Lake Texoma’s south shore will include over 7,000 residential units (single-family and multifamily), a resort hotel, restaurants, and marina facilities—transforming the lake into a major destination resort.
Why This Matters for Inspections: New construction in clay soil requires careful monitoring. Foundation settlement often doesn’t appear for 6-12 months. Our new construction and 11th-month warranty inspections protect your investment in these rapidly built communities.
Trusted by Grayson County Homeowners Since 2013
Elite Inspection Group was founded by Garrett Hand and Mike Kemper, former realtors who saw firsthand the stress homebuyers experience when inspection issues arise. Frustrated by inspectors who couldn’t communicate clearly or showed up unprepared, they built a company dedicated to exceptional service, cutting-edge technology, and client education.
What Makes Us Different
- Real Estate Background: Our founders’ realtor experience means we understand transaction timelines and buyer/seller dynamics
- Technology Leaders: Zip Level Pro-2000 foundation measurement, thermal imaging, moisture meters—we use the best tools available
- Client Education: We encourage you to attend the inspection and ask questions. Your home education starts here
- Same-Day Availability: 48-hour guaranteed scheduling, open 7 days a week including weekends and holidays
- Comprehensive Reports: Detailed digital reports with photos within 24 hours
- 120-Day Warranty: If we miss something, we cover it

Local Expertise Matters in Grayson County
From understanding Lake Texoma Corps of Engineers regulations to knowing which Sherman neighborhoods have pier and beam foundations, from recognizing the different clay soil compositions across the county to identifying common issues with specific builders—local knowledge makes the difference. We’ve inspected thousands of homes across Grayson County and understand the unique challenges each community faces.
Frequently Asked Questions About Grayson County Home Inspections
How long does a home inspection take in Grayson County?
A typical home inspection in Grayson County takes 2.5 to 4 hours for standard single-family homes, depending on size, age, and condition. Lakefront properties on Lake Texoma or large rural homes with acreage may require 4-6 hours due to additional structures like boat houses, docks, wells, and septic systems. Older historic homes in downtown Sherman or Denison with complex systems may also take longer. We never rush—thoroughness is more important than speed when it comes to your biggest investment.
What are the most common issues found in Grayson County homes?
The most common issues in Grayson County homes include foundation settlement from expansive clay soil that can expand up to 75% when saturated, HVAC system strain from extreme North Texas heat, roof damage from frequent hail storms in the hail corridor, and drainage problems on sloped terrain especially near Lake Texoma. In older Sherman and Denison homes, we frequently find plumbing issues and outdated electrical systems. In rural areas, well water quality and septic system functionality are common concerns. In newer developments, we often identify construction defects like improper drainage installation and foundation issues from building on improperly compacted fill soil.
Do you inspect homes built by D.R. Horton, K. Hovnanian, and Highland Homes?
Yes, we inspect homes by D.R. Horton, K. Hovnanian Homes, Highland Homes, and all builders operating in Grayson County. With major developments like Cottonwood, Mantua, Three Oaks, and Sanford Park bringing thousands of new homes to the area, our new construction inspections verify quality control before your warranty starts. We’re familiar with each builder’s typical construction methods, common shortcuts, and recurring issues. Even the best builders make mistakes—our job is to catch them while the builder is still financially motivated to fix them. We also inspect homes by William Taylor Custom Homes, Tilson, Historymaker Homes, Holley Jolly Homes, and all custom builders.
Should I get a foundation inspection separately in Grayson County?
Foundation inspection is included in every Elite Inspection Group home inspection in Grayson County. We use the Zip Level Pro-2000, which measures foundation elevation to 1/10th of an inch accuracy—essential for detecting movement in this area’s expansive clay soil that can gain or lose up to 75% of its volume. We perform elevation surveys at multiple points around the foundation perimeter, analyze crack patterns, evaluate drainage systems, and assess soil moisture levels. This comprehensive foundation analysis is critical in Grayson County and is always part of our standard inspection. You don’t need a separate foundation specialist unless our inspection reveals concerns requiring structural engineering analysis.
Do you inspect Lake Texoma waterfront properties?
Yes, we specialize in Lake Texoma waterfront property inspections throughout Grayson County. Our lakefront inspections include dock structure evaluation, flood zone verification, shoreline erosion assessment, moisture intrusion checks, and verification of U.S. Army Corps of Engineers permit compliance. We inspect homes in Pottsboro, Denison lakefront areas, and all around the Grayson County shores of Lake Texoma. These inspections cover septic systems (common on lakefront properties), boat houses, waterside outbuildings, water access rights verification, and enhanced mold and moisture risk assessments. Lake homes face unique challenges from seasonal water level fluctuations, increased humidity, and complex Corps regulations—our inspectors understand these special concerns.
What happens after the Grayson County home inspection?
Within 24 hours, you receive a comprehensive digital inspection report with photos, detailed findings, and maintenance recommendations specific to Grayson County conditions. Your report includes foundation elevation data, thermal imaging results, and area-specific guidance on clay soil management and seasonal maintenance. We include explanations in plain language—not technical jargon—and prioritize issues into safety concerns, major defects, and routine maintenance items. You can access your report online from any device, share it with your realtor or family, and reference it for years to come. We’re available after the report delivery to answer questions and explain findings. Many clients use our reports to negotiate repairs or price adjustments before closing.
Grayson County Homeowner Resources
County Government & Building Services
Grayson County Courthouse
100 West Houston Street, Sherman, TX 75090
Phone: 903-813-4200
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm
Website: www.co.grayson.tx.us
Building Permits & Development Services
200 South Crockett Street, Sherman, TX 75090
Phone: 903-813-4200
Important Note: Grayson County does not enforce building codes in unincorporated areas. Individual cities (Sherman, Denison, Van Alstyne, Pottsboro, etc.) enforce codes within city limits. Subdivision regulations apply countywide.
Major City Contacts
Sherman City Hall
405 North Rusk Street, Sherman, TX 75090
903-892-7200
Denison City Hall
300 West Main Street, Denison, TX 75020
903-465-2720
Van Alstyne City Hall
380 East Jefferson Street, Van Alstyne, TX 75495
903-482-6361
Pottsboro City Hall
150 North Main Street, Pottsboro, TX 75076
903-786-2525
Foundation & Clay Soil Management Tips
- Maintain Consistent Moisture: Water foundation perimeter during dry periods to prevent extreme shrinkage
- Improve Drainage: Keep gutters clean, extend downspouts 6-10 feet from foundation
- Foundation Watering System: Consider soaker hoses around perimeter during summer months
- Grading: Ensure soil slopes away from foundation (6 inches over 10 feet minimum)
- Tree Management: Large trees within 15 feet of foundation can cause moisture imbalances
- Monitor Cracks: Mark and date foundation cracks to track movement over time
- Plumbing Leaks: Fix leaks immediately—concentrated moisture accelerates foundation problems
Seasonal Home Maintenance for Grayson County
Spring: Inspect foundation for winter movement, service HVAC before summer heat, check roof for hail damage, clean gutters
Summer: Water foundation during drought, monitor HVAC performance, inspect attic ventilation, check for water intrusion after storms
Fall: Prepare heating system, rake leaves from foundation area, trim trees before winter storms, inspect insulation
Winter: Protect outdoor plumbing from freezes, check for ice dams, monitor heating efficiency, inspect for air leaks
Lake Texoma Property Resources
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Lake Texoma Project Office
Dock permits, shoreline regulations, water levels
FEMA Flood Maps: Verify flood zone status at msc.fema.gov
Understanding Grayson County’s Real Estate Market
Market Statistics (2025)
- Median Home Price: $329,185
- Price Range: $218,000 – $500,000 (standard homes), $300,000 – $1M+ (Lake Texoma waterfront)
- Average Days on Market: 71 days
- Market Status: Growing/Competitive
- Population Growth: 13.7% increase from 2020-2025
- Median Household Income: $70,455
- Owner-Occupancy Rate: 71.2%
Growth Drivers
- DFW metroplex expansion from Collin County northward
- Significantly lower home prices than Collin County (Frisco, Plano, McKinney)
- Lake Texoma recreational appeal for retirees and second homes
- Remote work enabling rural and lakefront living
- Multi-billion dollar development projects (Cottonwood, Mantua, Lake Texoma resort)
- Major employer growth in Sherman medical and manufacturing sectors
Buyer Demographics
DFW Commuters: Seeking affordability while maintaining access to Dallas-Fort Worth jobs. Sherman to Dallas: 65 miles, Van Alstyne to Frisco: 25 miles.
Retirees: Lake Texoma lifestyle attracts retirees from across Texas and Oklahoma seeking waterfront living and recreational opportunities.
Families: Small-town character, excellent schools in Howe and Van Alstyne, and affordable large lots appeal to young families.
Second-Home Buyers: Lake Texoma vacation properties for weekend getaways and future retirement homes.
Remote Workers: Ability to work from anywhere enables rural acreage living in Tioga, Tom Bean, and unincorporated areas.
Price Appreciation Trends
Grayson County has experienced steady 5-7% annual appreciation, with accelerated growth in Van Alstyne (near Mantua development), Sherman (Cottonwood area), and Lake Texoma waterfront markets. New construction inventory is rising, but demand from DFW migration continues to support prices.
Schedule Your Grayson County Home Inspection Today
Whether you’re buying a lakefront retreat on Lake Texoma, a historic home in Sherman or Denison, new construction in Van Alstyne or Pottsboro, or rural acreage in the county’s unincorporated areas, Elite Inspection Group delivers the thorough, technology-driven inspection you need to buy with confidence. With over a decade of Grayson County experience, we understand this market’s unique challenges—from expansive clay soil to Lake Texoma regulations to rapid new construction.
Call 469-818-5500 for 48-Hour Guaranteed Scheduling
Serving Sherman, Denison, Van Alstyne, Pottsboro, Whitesboro, Howe, and all Grayson County communities
Open 7 Days a Week • Licensed & Insured • 120-Day Warranty
