Inspection
You have the option (and we highly recommend) to have a professional home inspector inspect the home.
The inspector will look at a number of different things such as roof, appliances, furnace, water heater, windows, etc.
He can also answer basic questions about maintenance of some of the above, so we recommend you be present at the inspection.
You will need to pay the inspector at the time of the inspection. Depending upon square footage of the home, the cost can range anywhere from $200-$400.
You may elect to walk through the property 24-48 hours before closing to make certain it is still in the condition it was at the time you wrote the contract.