Before
committing to the purchase of a house, buyers should conduct a thorough
investigation of the property. Below are several items which buyers
should
consider in their investigation.
Zoning
and Building Code Requirements. - Determine whether the house and
adjoining
properties are located in a residential zone. Adjoining properties
could be
located in commercial, industrial, or multiple-family residential zones
that
could allow undesirable development. Prospective buyers who are buying
land to
construct a new house should understand the zoning and building code
requirements that could affect construction prior to purchasing a
building lot.
Water
and Sewer. - Determine whether the house is served by city water and
sewer
lines. If a well will be the water source, the contract should require
having
the water quality tested. If the property is served by a septic system
instead
of public sewer lines, inspection of the soil conditions and the
operation of
the septic system should be required by the contract.
Toxic
Waste. - If the property is located near any facilities which could
possibly be
a source of toxic pollution, then a more thorough investigation by an
environmental inspector is warranted.
City
Plans. - Speak with the appropriate city office and review any use maps
on
file.