Wondering how to make your home purchase trouble free -- or at least uncover problems before you buy? When looking at property to buy, consider the following:

Age of the property  -- this will give clues as to the type of wiring, does the house have lead paint, etc.

Structural condition -- walk around the house and look closely at the:

• Roof
• Windows
• Gutters
• Foundations
• Paint
• Corner of all exterior walls -- any signs of water damage? Stains or large areas of flaking paint?

Overall, are there signs of neglect? Is wood rotting? Are the gutters falling off? These could be signs of neglect that can lead to bigger problems.

Major systems -- how old are the plumbing, electrical and heating/cooling systems? Have they reached their life capacity? Have they been properly maintained?

Individual Rooms  -- Look at ceilings and any joint where a window or door meets the wall. These are areas where water problems often become visible.

Bathrooms -- (A major source of water problems!) Look around the ceilings, windows, etc. for discoloration. This could be a sign of water problems. Is there wall paper? is it smooth to the wall or bumpy? Can you discretely peel a corner back to check for mold? Is the caulk/grout cracked at base of tub or shower?

Kitchen -- Examine the ceiling, windows, and doorways for signs of air or water infiltration. Look at the countertop  -- is it secure to the wall so that water does not get behind it?

Basement -- (A major source of water problems!) An unfinished basement is a blessing, as it will allow you to look at the major systems. Examine any exposed pipes for signs of wear and tear. Are there any copper pipes, a sign that the plumbing has been upgraded recently?

Are there water lines along the wall, at the base of any wood framing? Are bricks disintegrating? Is there mortar between the bricks? Is there a musty odor -- a big indicator of water problems?