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Buying a New Home? Here's What You Need to Know

By Stephanie Welch Alexander
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Demand full disclosure and a professional home inspection.
« Consider a buyer's broker. | Get it in writing. »
Most states require that a home seller disclose potential problems with the property -- but the homeowner may not always know or reveal existing structural problems (despite the legal requirement). The only way to truly know what's going on inside (and over and under) a home's structure is to secure the services of a reputable home inspector. Expect to pay $300-600 for the inspection. It seems like a lot of money, but consider the thousands it could save you if the home isn't up to code or has major issues.


Know your needs.

Weigh the costs of home ownership.

Better to build or buy?

Location, location, location.

Know your loans.


Consider a buyer's broker.

Demand full disclosure and a professional home inspection.

Get it in writing.

What to do after the sale.

Don't forget about taxes.
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