Start with the big items: foundation, roof age, water intrusion, permit history, seismic upgrades, electrical and plumbing condition, and any engineering or inspection reports. For condos, the HOA documents are just as important as the unit, so look at budgets, reserves, upcoming projects, and any litigation.
I help buyers read disclosures critically, looking not only at what’s stated but at what might be missing. San Francisco homes carry history, and disclosures tell the story of how well a property has been maintained and where future expenses may be hiding.