It is strongly advised to have a licensed certified home inspector inspect any property you plan to purchase, the cost of which can be anywhere from $250 and up depending on the size and age of the home.  This is a general inspection of all the major systems of the property from the foundation to the roof and landscape and all the major mechanical systems like plumbing, electric, heating and cooling and more.  Each home inspector should provide you an agreement for service outlining what they will inspect and how they will inspect it prior to the day of the inspection. I provide referrals for inspectors, just ask.  It is also strongly advised that you obtain a termite inspection usually costing less than $75. If there is a well, a well inspection is advised usually costing less than $600. Other inspections are available like mold and radon tests. You also have the right to have other professionals investigate and give bids for items of concern found from the home inspection, like a roofer or plumber etc. The seller is usually responsible for the cost of having the septic system inspected and pumped if applicable prior to close of escrow.

After you agree on the price and general terms of your purchase you will have an inspection period to explore, investigate and discover all you want about a property at your expense as the Buyer. It’s typically 10 calendar days long but always negotiable. If you find anything you disapprove of during this due diligence period, you can almost always cancel the deal with no money out of pocket except for the cost of the inspection.  You can also negotiate with the seller on the findings with either a price reduction or requesting the seller make repairs, or you can accept the property in its current condition.