Maintenance of hardboard siding? (Charlotte: houses, buyer, subdivision)

[linearity]

Hi,

We just relocated to Charlotte from the SW and we came across a subdivision we absolutely love, but most of the houses have hardboard siding and are about 15 years old. Since the only house we've ever owned had stucco exterior, we know nothing about the upkeep of hardboard siding. Can anyone enlighten us? We'd like to know what we'd be getting into before making a decision....Thanks.

[clodhopper]

http://www.coyle-inspect.com/Hardboard%20Siding.htm (broken link)

Looks like it is considered good stuff but only if installed and maintained properly. In the article they admonish the prospective buyer to make sure to find out when the house was last painted....and to expect to paint again soon.