Checking for Registered Sex Offenders

Is there a sex offender near the house you like? We highly recommend that home buyers check to see if any registered sex offenders live nearby. Many counties, cities and parishes publish this information on-line. Megan's Law is an informal name for laws in the United States requiring law enforcement authorities to make information available to the public regarding registered sex offenders, which was created in response to the murder of Megan Kanka. Individual states decide what information will be made available and how it should be disseminated. Commonly included information are the offender's name, picture, address, incarceration date, and nature of crime. The information is often displayed on free public websites, but can be published in newspapers, distributed in pamphlets, or through various other means. ~Wikipedia

Beware of Meth Houses

A home that has been compromised by having a meth lab or other illegal drug activity can have a serious negative health effect on people living in the home. There is a national tracking database available on-line through the US Drug Enforcement Administration. http://www.justice.gov/dea/clan-lab/clan-lab.shtml additionally, many counties and cities have on-line resources as well as information that can be accessed by visiting your government offices.

Point of Sale Inspections

Many cities & municipalities require point of sale inspections prior to a title transfer to a new owner. They usually entail checking safety issues as well as septic and well inspections.

Know the Neighborhood

Remember to use Google Maps or a similar program that provides an overview of the home’s neighborhood and surrounding businesses. That way you will know if there is anything you find objectionable.

Buying a New Construction Spec Home

If you are considering purchasing a new construction spec home, check with the city or county that is responsible for issuing permits. Make sure that the builder followed the inspection requirements at the points specified at each stage of the building process. This is usually the planning department.