"peter" wrote in news:dZYVj.7973$jk1.475@trndny05:

As others have said, get the home inspected. Another good idea: Bring
2-3 intelligent, observant friends for a couple of walk-throughs.
Sometimes they spot things the inspectors miss, or ask questions you
didn't. "How come the ceiling in this room is textured, but not in
other rooms?" Could point to past water damage. Inspectors don't
always notice everything. Mine completely missed the uninsulated
crawl space under part of the kitchen.

No kidding. My impression is that anyone can get a license and call
himself a house inspector.

In some states that's absolutely true. In some states you have to be
licensed by the state. http://www.home-inspect.com/legislation.asp

No matter what the requirements are, probably best to go with one
certified by ASHI or NACHI. I know ASHI is a good one.


But think about it, in order to find all the faults, the inspector
needs to know about structural engineering, electrical, plumbing,
carpentry, pests, geology, plants and trees, city and building codes,
... How could one person be an expert in all these fields?

The suggestions about bringing observant friends is a good one,
especially friends who are DIY type home owners.

Also, call some insurance companies to get insurance quote. If the
house has had mold problems and words get to the insurance companies,
some (all?) insurance company would refuse to insure the house.

Also, the older the house is, the more rigorous you need to inspect it
not just due to deteriorations, but also building code update. If the
house belongs to a home owners association, reading the meeting
minutes from the past may also reveal some problems.