Alabama is what is called a "Buyer Beware" state. If the Seller doesn't disclose it, it is basically up to the buyer to perform due diligence themselves. How old is the roof? Does the dishwasher work?
What about the septic tank, or termites? Is the electrical wiring sufficient to provide a correct ground fault circuit interrupt should the portable mixer fall into the hand sink while your daughter is washing the dishes? Or, do the GFCI plugs in the bathroom only look like they function correctly?

There's more; like cracks in walls, assuming that the space above the ceiling in the garage can hold lots of storage when it may not be ( and probably is not) structurally sound for such use. I have heard of roofs falling in from the added weight of storage. Imagine a heavy snow fall on that already over weighted roof. And even though heavy snowfall may be a rarity here in Huntsville, and North Alabama, it could happen.

What about gas appliances and back drafting? And, do you know Radon Gas inside the home is considered by over twenty two countries, the U.S. Surgeon General, The American Medical Association, The American Lung Association, the U.S. EPA, and many other organizations as being the cause of lung cancer and the deaths of over twenty-thousand people each year?

Now consider plumbing. It can be a nightmare just day-dreaming about problems in this area. I won't even elaborate here. You get my point. I quickly move to property lines and right of ways.

OK,  well what do you do when a neighbors septic tank field lines are encroaching over onto the property you are about to purchase? Did the Seller warrant against this event? How do you even know? What about an exisiting fence belonging to the property you are about to purchase, actually standing a full ten inches accross onto the adjoining property? Now what?

What is title insurance and why should you buy more than less? What types of insurance best protects you as a buyer? 

Home warranties are a curious lot. They can be great, though, if you buy the right one. Wonder who pays for what and is there a difference between closing costs and pr-paid costs as is written in the ofeer to purchase contract. What fees are customary and who pays them?

There is much more to the daily in's and out's of buying a new or existing home in Alabama. Do your best research; decide the level of care you need or don't need in purchasing property in Alabama. Then, if you believe, like I do, that exclusive buyer representation can help with all of the above items and more, not to mention negotiating skills, find you someone who cares about your needs AND your lifestyle. Advertising Alabama.com is a great place to start. Buyers can get access to our local MLS at http://tinyurl.com/mlsaccess .


Best wishes to you and your family. I hope this is helpful. 

Jim Robinson, Broker
Advertising Alabama 

P.S. Don't forget to get a comprehensive moving checklist too! (priceless)