Things to consider when buying a house/condo

[80watts]

So what are some things to consider? I know a house and condo are alot different.
Strata fees. Parking, Bus/transit. Neighbours. Utilities (water, heat, hydro, sewer, septic). Intended plan of building (eg. is is a passive solar design or not). Noise at night, and daytime. Location of course. Does it fit into your lifestyle (eg. a garden for gardeners).
Older houses (construction and electrical- new houses have electrical outlets on every wall in the room). Does it have a workshop?

 

[oldshark]

Presence of asbestos insulation in old houses. Sometimes, even lead piping. State of piping in general. Buried oil tank.

For Condos, when does the 'envelope' warranty run out.

 

[westwoody]

Buried oil tank.

Is it legal to sell a house with an oil tank?
We had to remove the one in my dad's house. it cost a lot .NOT as easy as it seems.

For Condos, when does the 'envelope' warranty run out.

Condos are a pain in the ass at best.

Home inspections are a waste of money. I paid a guy to do one once and he missed a ton of stuff. Gave the house a thumbs up.
He was referred by the realtor. Strange coincidence eh?
If possible get someone who builds houses to inspect it with you present. Emphasis on with you present.
A contractor or journeyman carpenter will see things you won't.

 

[too timid]

current community plan, future community plan , zoning, land use, bylaws, local politicians and if possible neighbors and localized residents
one may feel they live in paradise until their local politicians get greased and change the community plan allowing people to split lots, subdivide and or redevelop, then they end up with a tasteless property line crushing mc mansion for a neighbour way too big for its own lot staring down into your space , and or increased density

 

[Lo-ki]

People asks more questions when the buy a phone then a house......