Rapaire: about the deck railings being 30" high. Two thoughts ... It's a little unusual for the house sale to go through without these being brought "up" to code (all puns intended). However, you could have signed a waiver on this. In reality, I wouldn't worry about it UNLESS you have little children that might want to start climbing on them. If that's the case, PM me and I'll give you some ideas.

About the carpeting on the deck: This is usually a serious concern. Most people put carpeting on an outside deck to hide uglyness or rot. Either way, they usually CAUSE rot to happen soon, as the carpeting traps the moisture on (in) the wood. If you can stab a screwdriver INTO the wood at all, you've probably got a problem. Again, feel free to PM me for advice.

Congrads on your new home. Exciting, isn't it! Bob