Karen Hayes, - Windermere Real Estate/Northwest Inc.

Before buying your dream home, we encourage you to address issues ahead of time that may worry you and that most buyers don't think to look at. It's better to research common issues beforehand so that they aren't surprises during the purchase process when you're under a deadline to decide yes or no on a house.

Asbestos, lead paint, mold and mildew are all issues that come up depending on the age of the home. Find out how each can effect your health and what can be done about it. For example, lead paint is much worse for kids than adults - if you have a family, maybe you want to look for a newer house without any. But, if you're a retired couple, painting over the lead paint with some sort of sealant might be just fine for you.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) site is a wonderful resource, and they're really happy to answer questions. http://www.epa.gov

Your Homework: Crime & Safety

Today's online resources make it possible to find out just how safe your future neighborhood might be. You don't want to move into your dream home, and have it turn into a nightmare because you have a sex offender living next door.

Find crime statistics at http://www.cityofseattle.net/police/crime/default.htm. Look up sex offenders' residences at http://www.metrokc.gov/sheriff/services/sex_offender_search/. And don't forget the neighborhood police station. Drop by and chat with an officer; they'll be happy to tell you about what goes on near your potential home.

Your Homework: The Neighborhood

Once you find your dream house, Karen or Dennis will help you meet your new neighbors. There is an addendum in the Purchase & Sale Agreement called 'Neighborhood Review.' This is an opportunity to ask people in the neighborhood lots of questions: Are the neighbors friendly? Any late night parties? Barking dogs? History of car theft or break-ins?

Take the time to drive by the home at different times - on the weekend, a midweek evening, and even during the morning commute. In the middle of a regular workday, every neighborhood is quiet and peaceful. Stop by a local coffeeshop and pick up a copy of any neighborhood weeklies. This will give you the flavor of the neighborhood.