How to tour a home like an inspector

After a few tours homes blur together; notes and photos help you compare.

• Note the roof, windows, water stains and the age of the heating and cooling.
• Run the taps, try the outlets, open the windows. Known¹

Ask early for disclosures, HOA documents and recent utility bills. Known¹

Most states make sellers tell you what they know, and a late disclosure can give you a right to cancel. Rule^2,3,4,5,6,7

Condo, co-op or HOA home? Thin reserves can mean special assessments, and buildings needing critical repairs may not qualify for Fannie Mae loans.

• Ask for the budget, reserve study and recent board minutes.
• Ask about pending or planned special assessments.
• Co-op: ask for the board application package and its rules. Rule⁸

Property tax can change after a sale, and HOA dues, insurance and flood coverage move the monthly number.

• Ask whether the tax bill resets for a new owner in this state.
• Get HOA dues and any special assessments in writing.
• Get an insurance quote for the address.
• Look up the address on FEMA's flood map. Rule^{9,10,11,12,13}

Flood insurance bought later has a 30-day wait, but there's no wait when you buy it along with your mortgage. Known¹⁴

A home inspection is a professional check of the home's condition. Book it as soon as your offer is accepted, go if you can, and choose an inspector who works for you. Known^15,16

Radon, sewer lines, pests and some hazards aren't part of a standard home inspection. Known^17,18