If you have been searching for a place and seemed to have already found one, it would be nice to check the place thoroughly. By the word thorough, it would not only mean physically inspect every corners of the house. It likewise suggests asking some question on people living around the property that you wanted to buy. Try to ask the neighbors about the property, and here below are some tips as outlined also by propertycluster.
You should ask persons nearby the house that you are supposed to purchase; and try look for details on why is it that the owners or their neighbor is selling the house. Of course you already have an initial idea about it coming from the owner himself. However, it would not hurt a bit to hear some additional info. You may hear different answers from these neighbors, but whatever would it be, at least you have some additional basis for your decision. Still you may verify it with the owner of the house.
After asking the possible reasons behind the sell, you should then ask about the safety of the neighborhood. Since you will be transferring in a new place and in a new house, you should put more emphasis on your personal safety. You may ask in particular if it's safe for a person to be going home late in the evening hour, especially if you or any member of the family would be using public transport. To somehow be more accurate with the information, you may also visit nearby local law enforcement agency. You may ask them about the crime rate and common crimes within the vicinity.
Aside from safety, you should also inquire about a possible home owners association. Try to know their rules and guidelines. You may then compare this information to your lifestyle and way of doing things. For once you would decide to purchase the property, you are then obliged to follow these set of rules. It's good to know if there would be any conflict of interest, the earlier the better.