We've had about 10 placements in all and not a one of them came with anything. We had to shop for them all after picking them up.
As far as how long the process? It really all depends on how quick you can get your classes done. We were liscensed in about 8 months because of dh's schedule and trying to fit class hours in.
As far as homestudy this is what they look for:
All fire alarms are in working order
All meds are locked and away from kids reach
All house cleaners are locked up
Have at least 50 square feet per child in the bedroom
(so if your bedroom is 100 sq feet you can have 2 kids in there)
Fire extinguisher in kitchen
Animal shots are up to date
Homestudies are truly not bad. I know that I was besides myself trying to get my house in order and thinking they were going to come in with a white glove and wipe every nook and cranny in the house. Never happened
.
If you have any other questions I would love to answer them if I can so please feel free to pm me. I too am in Northwest Indiana, not too far from Lake Co. Wishing you the best!