[jhynesrockmtn]

I've owned many and my ex is a realtor, here is my list:

• Buy in the best neighborhood you can afford, the old addage, location, location, location is true, schools, access to shopping, parks nearby, etc. all help resale. Look around, are you buying in an area with a bunch of rentals, mixed zoning, what shape are the other houses in and how are their yards kept?
• Look at the type of structure, split level (no, stay away unless it's a budget issue), ranch, tri-level, construction era and materials used, my 50's house is in way better shape than the crap built around here in big developments 5-10 years ago. Newer is not necessarily better!
• Hire a real inspector, not one of those dip*&^%s realtors recommend that attended a quickie certification school to close the deal quick. Someone who's been a contractor, pick them yourself, interview them.
• Get the furnace inspected by a professional.
• What kind of wiring, copper pipes?.
• How old?
• If older consider having the sewer line scoped, if septic get it inspected and pumped. This crap is expensive.
• Go to the water meter with everything off in the house, is it spinning? How old is the water service line?
• Any yard issues, standing water, weird slopes or drainage problem?
• Roof - good shape or will it need replacement?
• Siding, what is it, shape, synthetic material, is it on any recall lists or should it be?
• Mold and moisture, make sure your inspector knows how to detect and looks for it. Is there a basement? Is it dry? Sump pump installed, if so why?
• Windows, what kind, how old?
• Insulation, up to snuff?
• Access to gas, broadband, cable, etc.
• Garage, big enough? Insulated, will it fit a Porsche?
• Neighbors and noise, go there at different times of the day, ask about who lives around there, consider introducing yourself. Living near a *&&hole with a big barking dog and teenagers having wild parties on the weekend will drive you crazy quickly.

This is a great time to buy and you are in command here, don't compromise on anything but also don't let a few things scare you away from an otherwise great house. If things come up you are better off getting bids and knocking the price down and getting the work done yourself, don't let the seller or their agent handle it.