Also, if possible talk to some of the neighbors. They can be very telling about the previous owners, and also any of the problems that the house has had.
I didn't do this, and should have. I later found out that there were 3 St Bernards in the house that they were to lazy to take out for walks. Hence, that is where the smell came from. Also found out just recently that there were major problems with the grinder pump. Neighbors are very willing to talk, and its also good to get to know them beforehand.