Ask homeowner for records of fuel or utility bills. These may give you some idea of the cost to heat and cool the house. Radon, Asbestos, and Lead Radon can be tested by leaving test canisters at the site for a period of time to determine the levels of radon present. Home inspectors can check the radon level for you. You may want your offer to be contingent on test findings.
Asbestos is found in older homes.
Asbestos was frequently used to wrap heating ducts and radiator lines. It was also used in some spray-on ceilings and tile flooring. Material that is not flaking may be encapsulated rather than removed. You must decide how serious the problem is. Lead water supply pipes still be found in some inner city homes need to be replaced with copper pipes.