You're been through the house hunting, negotiating the price, inspections, appraisals, coordinating the move, and now comes the real challenge:

Understanding and operating the various mechanical systems in the new home. The larger the home, the more involved the amenities can be, and without some tutoring, getting the systems to operate properly can be a nightmare.

With homes now being equipped with security systems, sound systems, sprinkler systems, and pools, without some assistance, these high priced features that made the house more attractive can get very expensive to repair. The houses have all the bells and whistles, but the instructions may not always be concise and easy to understand.

The sellers have no obligation to help buyers learn the idiosyncrasies of a house, but some do provide enough help to allow the new owners to settle in. Buyers should ask about everything from the day-to-day operations of the house to landscaping details, to details about the neighborhood baby sitters.

Fallout From Negotiations:  Typically the amount of information exchanged depends on the character of the negotiations. Falling home prices and tough negotiations have made some sellers less likely to provide additional details. Some agents may have enough business contacts to get some of the answers, but nothing serves the buyer better than first hand knowledge right from the previous owners. All homes have something unique. It may not be that the seller didn't disclose everything; it could be just how something works.

Sentimental Sellers:  Sellers who are sentimental about their homes often appreciate the chance to share details. Walking the property to detail the boundaries; detailing the various plants around the house and the particular care needed for each; garbage collection days; instructions on starting generators; or setting sensitive thermostats.

Here is a list of pertinent questions to ask about your new purchase: 

• Are any appliances under warranty?
• Are there product manuals for the appliances?
• Are there landscape plans or a list of the outdoor plants and how to take care of them?
• What are the names and phone numbers of the immediate neighbors?
• Are there children living on the street?
• Where is the school bus pick-up?
• What day is trash pick up day?
• What do I do with the recyclables?
• What are some of the restaurants in the area, video stores, parks?
• Where is the local mechanic, dry cleaner?
• What are the names and numbers of the people you used for lawn care, snow removal, pool cleaning, etc?
• Is there an electrician, plumber or technician familiar with the systems in the house?
• What are the names of the paint colors used in the house?

      And my favorite: Are there any light switches that operate something unexpected?  Remember that insurance commercial where the neighbor's garage door kept opening and closing because of a mystery switch?