About
True North Inspections
True North Inspections is a veteran and first responder owned home inspection company serving San Marcos, Austin, the Highland Lakes region, Lampasas, and surrounding Central Texas communities. We provide thorough, unbiased inspections designed to help buyers and sellers make confident, informed decisions.
Dakota Brandon
Home Inspector
Dakota Brandon is a U.S. Navy veteran and Texas native who co-founded True North Inspections with a commitment to integrity, accuracy, and service. After being honorably discharged in 2013, Dakota pursued a career in electronics engineering, where he developed a strong technical foundation and attention to detail that now carries over into every home inspection he performs.
Dakota’s background in engineering allows him to approach inspections methodically, identifying defects, safety concerns, and system deficiencies with precision. He believes a quality home inspection should be thorough without being alarmist, and that clients deserve clear explanations they can understand and trust.
At True North Inspections, Dakota focuses on delivering unbiased inspections and clear, easy-to-read reports that help buyers and sellers make informed decisions with confidence.
Dakota’s service areas include:
Highland Lakes • Horseshoe Bay • Llano • Lake Buchanan • Kingsland • Marble Falls • Lampasas • Surrounding Central Texas communities
JT Payne
Home Inspector
Justin “JT” Payne is a Texas native and experienced first responder with over a decade of service in emergency medical services. His background in EMS instilled a strong sense of responsibility, professionalism, and clear communication—qualities that now define his approach to home inspections.
JT’s transition into the home inspection industry was driven by the same motivation that guided his work as a first responder: helping people make informed decisions during important moments. He understands that purchasing a home is one of the largest investments most individuals will make, and he believes clients deserve honest information without unnecessary fear or confusion.
JT is known for taking the time to walk clients through their inspection reports, answer questions, and explain findings in plain language. His goal is to ensure every client feels confident, informed, and supported throughout the inspection process.
JT’s service areas include:
San Marcos • Canyon Lake • New Braunfels • Kyle • Blanco • Johnson City • Dripping Springs • Surrounding Central Texas communities
Why Clients Choose True North Inspections
Why We Are Here
We believe home buyers deserve clear, honest information about one of the largest investments they will ever make. Our goal is to help clients understand not just what we inspect—but why it matters—so they can make confident decisions.
What We Won't Do
We don’t use alarmist language or exaggerate minor issues. Not every defect is a deal-breaker, and many concerns can be easily addressed. Our reports are designed to inform—not create unnecessary fear or confusion.
What We Will Do
We thoroughly inspect the home from foundation to roof, attic to crawlspace, and everything in between. We identify significant defects, explain their impact, and provide evidence-based recommendations you can trust.