My dad insisted I use a $40 moisture meter before buying my first house in the South Valley, and it found a hidden leak under the kitchen sink. | Abq Home Repair - Rigidtalk
Wish I had one before buying my place, would have saved me from the moldy surprise behind my shower wall. That forty bucks seems cheap compared to what a hidden leak can cost you down the line. My inspection missed it completely, so now I'm the proud owner of a moisture meter and a lingering sense of betrayal. Honestly, it's not overkill, it's just smart insurance for your biggest purchase.
Ever think those meters were just for contractors? I did until a slow drip under my kitchen sink wrecked the cabinet. Your story, @abbyd36, about the mold behind the shower is exactly why I bought one. Now I check the walls near my tub every few months, and that peace of mind is worth way more than forty bucks.