Buying tip: Repairs in the purchase price

"When you make an offer on a home and it is accepted, you'll need to arrange for a home inspection. This way, you'll find out if there are any problems with leaky roofs, cracked walls, insect infestations or damaged foundations. If you negotiate repairs as part of the purchase, ask for a walk-through before finalizing the paperwork."

INTERVIEW BY LAURA MANN

February 1, 2008