Anytime a building is built on a steep hillside, structural issues predominate the exterior inspection. Is the hillside moving? Is the foundation stressed? Are there active cracks in the foundation walls? Are the posts supporting the decks vertical or leaning? Are the footings for the posts secure or show signs of failure?
What about the driveway? Will it be accessible during inclement weather? On those days that there is substantial snow or freezing rain, is there parking available at the top of the driveway?
What about the landscaping? Is there indication of ground movement? How about the tall trees, are they being affected?