Good things to do when buying a house

[Tim K]

I don't usually recommend home inspectors, but if you don't know what to look for yourself, I think they're a good idea. They'll check a lot of stuff that doesn't matter, but they'll also check some major things you might not know to look for. Some also have insurance so if they miss something, they pay to get it fixed.

[Great-Kazoo]

If the house is more than 15 year old and you have landscaping between the house and the curb, then yes, you should spend the money for a sewer inspection. Another good point is to drive in front of the house at different time of day/night just to see who is living around you.... The nice, quiet house next to you, could become a meth distribution center after 10 pm or just a frat party house over the week end.

Friday, sat nights and sundays,

[kawiracer14]

If you're moving anywhere decent in Denver you don't have much choice/time. Houses are generally selling the day they are listed or the day after.

[Tinelement]

Be present during the inspection of the home you are buying.

[Wulf202]

Change your damned locks on day 1

[newracer]

I would personally check the function of every window, door, light, and outlet.

[Dave_L]

This is more for after the purchase but do any painting/re-flooring before you move in. WAY easier.

[.455_Hunter]

If you're moving anywhere decent in Denver you don't have much choice/time. Houses are generally selling the day they are listed or the day after.

Yup- We listed our house in Arvada last year at this time and it was on the market for just over 24 hours.

[SideShow Bob]

Check the flood plain map. Ins. Are canceling / won't insure houses in certain areas. I heard of a couple folks that lived in the city limits had their ins. get canceled shortly after the 2013 floods due to the fact that there was a green space near them.

[PugnacAutMortem]

If the house is more than 15 year old and you have landscaping between the house and the curb, then yes, you should spend the money for a sewer inspection. Another good point is to drive in front of the house at different time of day/night just to see who is living around you.... The nice, quiet house next to you, could become a meth distribution center after 10 pm or just a frat party house over the week end.

That is an excellent idea that I would have honestly never have thought to do. A bad neighbor can really make your life miserable.

I don't usually recommend home inspectors, but if you don't know what to look for yourself, I think they're a good idea. They'll check a lot of stuff that doesn't matter, but they'll also check some major things you might not know to look for. Some also have insurance so if they miss something, they pay to get it fixed.

The nice thing about my situation is that my dad was a home inspector for quite a few years, so I am going to have him look the place over. I figured he might be a bit more invested than some other guy, cosidering the fact that his child and his grandchildren will be living there.