Congratulations! You've found a house you think could be the one. Great, but there are still some things to consider:

Should I have a Home Inspection done?
Are you qualified to make the best observation of this home, or should you consult the advice of a professional home inspector, engineer, or contractor? Older homes may require additional attention. Look carefully. In addition to the usual array of concerns, there are other issues you should be aware of.

Lead-based paint All owners of homes built prior to 1978 are required to disclose anything they know about the presence of lead in the home. Also required is that they provide buyers with the EPA booklet entitled, "Protect Your Family From Lead in Your Home." If a Realtor is handling the sale, they can provide the booklet. Sellers are legally obligated to sign a lead disclosure statement. This disclosure reveals to the buyer any knowledge that the seller has regarding the presence of lead. The seller must also make a 10-day window of opportunity available to the buyer for a lead test to be done, at the buyer's expense, if the buyer wishes to have one. Lead, if not handled properly, can be hazardous especially to young children. However, it was a common practice to use lead-based paint, and if properly maintained, no risk may be present.

To find out more information about lead in the home:
Call the National Lead Information Center: 1-800-LEAD-FYI, or 1-800424-LEAD; For the hearing impaired TDD: 1-800-526-5456. The EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline: 1-800-426-4791. For additional information, see Hot Topics: More on Lead.

Asbestos
Asbestos can present health problems, and some lenders will require that treatment be performed; either removal or encapsulation prior to closing. This could be costly, and should be identified prior to making an offer to purchase. Keep in mind, however, that asbestos was frequently used as to insulate, and its presence alone should not preclude you from making a decision to purchase. It's best to get an expert opinion.

Megan's Law
The tragic death of 7-year old Megan Kanka of New Jersey, was the catalyst for new legislation pertaining to the disclosure of those convicted of crimes against children. New York State is just one of 43 states that now has its own version of Megan's Law. While no specific federal guidelines exist with regard to disclosure. New York State's Megan's Law requires the disclosure of sexual offenders if they are currently living in "close proximity" to the home for sale. Sellers may ultimately be required to disclose this information to any buyer who asks. Information can be obtained by dialing 1-900-288-3838, Monday through Friday, between 8 am and 5pm. Callers will reach the Division of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS), who will provide information regarding those listed on the State's Sex Offender Registry. The cost of the call is $5.00, and callers are required to provide correct name, and wither an exact street address, social security number, birth date, or driver's license number of the person in question. As of March 31, 1998, there are 7,128 cases on the Registry.

Equal Housing Opportunities Federal law prohibits homeowners, landlords, real estate agents, or lenders from refusing to rent or sell to any person on the basis of their race, religion, color, sex, national origin, handicap, or children/familial status.

The Fair Housing Act prohibits the making, printing or publishing of any statement, notice or advertisement in connection with the sale or rental of housing which expresses a preference, limitation, or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin.

These represent the most common concerns, but may not be the only elements to be concerned about. Discuss them with your Realtor and your attorney.

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