Anyone buying a home should have it inspected for faults. Make sure the property you buy isn't a dud - and there are plenty out there, especially in cities where housing stock can be very old and run down.
There are number of different inspections to be made depending on the type of property, including:

• Building inspections
• Pest inspections
• Electrical inspections
• Strata inspections and
• A land/property survey

These inspections are likely to cost anywhere between $200 and $600 each. Don't baulk at the cost. It is vital that you find out about any hidden nasties like damp, shifting foundations, faulty wiring and plumbing. Then you can factor in the cost of repairs to the purchase price or decide to drop the deal altogether.

Archicentre, the home and advisory division of the Royal Australian Institute of Architects, has an extensive Do-It-Yourself checklist for home buyers on their website at www.archicentre.com.au
Archicentre also runs a home inspection service for home buyers. This national service provides details on home defects and necessary repairs and the price costs from $395.