How old are the major systems?
In an older home, ask about the roof, electrical panel and wiring, plumbing, water heater, heating and cooling, insulation and major updates. Cosmetic finishes rarely tell the whole story.
What is happening below ground?
Depending on the property, that may mean a sewer line, septic system, well, drainage system or retaining structure. Know which systems serve the home and what has been maintained or replaced.
How does water move around the property?
Lane County gets real winter rain. Pay attention to grading, gutters, crawlspaces, drainage, low spots, nearby waterways and hillside runoff rather than judging the yard only on a sunny showing day.
What does the access look like?
For hillside or rural properties, look beyond the driveway photo. Think about grade, parking, private roads, shared access, emergency access and what the route feels like in dark or wet weather.
What is the utility setup?
City water and sewer are not universal once you move outward. Rural properties may use wells, septic, propane or other systems, and internet availability can vary by exact address.
Does the location work on a normal weekday?
Drive the route you will actually use. Check school, hospital, UO, airport, grocery, trail and work access at the time of day you would normally travel it.
Is wildfire exposure part of the picture?
Some properties have greater wildfire or vegetation-management considerations than others. Insurance availability and cost can also vary, so this is worth checking early for a specific property.
What comes with the land?
Acreage, outbuildings, fences, easements, irrigation, trees and private road responsibilities can all become part of the ownership experience outside the urban core.
What does the inspection need to cover?
A newer subdivision home, a 1940s bungalow and rural acreage do not raise the same questions. The property itself should drive the due-diligence plan.
