Buying a home is one of the biggest and most important decisions you’ll ever make, so it’s no surprise that prospective buyers often have nearly endless questions about the process and properties.
While we’ve discussed things you should never say as a buyer, here are 10 questions from Business Insider you can – and should – ask sellers if you have the opportunity.
- Why are you selling the home?
“It’s one thing to relocate for a new job or growing family. However, if there are other reasons, like maintenance concerns or negative occurrences that have happened in the home, it’s good to know before signing on the dotted line.”
- How long have you lived in the home?
“Have they only lived there for a few months or is this a house they have made their home and built a life in? Allow the homeowners to tell their story and paint a picture. Let them really sell it to you. Listen closely for red flags or reasons why the home may not be a good fit.”
- Has there ever been water damage?
“Water damage can flow throughout a home causing multiple areas of damage. It can lead to mold in hidden places. Ask about any leaking issues in their washing machine, dishwasher, refrigerator, or other appliances. So knowing if it has had previous water issues will help you determine if you’re buying a gem or a lemon.”
- What is the surrounding neighborhood like?
“Are the neighbors friendly or noisy? Is the neighborhood involved, perhaps with holiday gatherings, block parties, or events for kids? Does the area have a lot of robberies or vandalism? Is the street well lit at night? No one can speak to neighborhood details better than someone who’s lived there.”
- What maintenance work has been done on the home?
“It is important to know if the roof was replaced recently or if the water heater is on its last legs. Ask the current homeowners about the regular maintenance costs and any repairs they have done since living there. An older home might require more upkeep, and over time, the maintenance costs can add up.”
- What is your favorite thing about the house?
“Every home has character, whether it is the swinging bench on the patio or the secret entryway in the back. So ask the homeowner what they love about living there. This could be a great opportunity to learn hidden details about your potential future residence.”
- What are the monthly utilities?
“One of the expenses to prepare for when buying a home is monthly utilities. So ask the current homeowner for a copy of the past year’s utility bills. This will provide you with an average monthly cost, which allows you to budget accordingly.”
- Are there any furnishings the homeowner plans to keep?
“State laws vary as to what is and what is not included in the sale, so be sure to be explicit about whether an outside birdbath, playground sets, wall mounts, light fixtures or any other item that are only semi-attached are included in the sale.”
- What is the lowest price you are willing to sell for?
“It is important to know what the seller’s bottom price is. In your conversation, work your way there by asking what repairs they are willing to do. Ask if they’re willing to provide painting or flooring allowances, provide closing costs, or pay for a home warranty.”
- Do you have contact information of professionals who previously serviced the home?
“While it’s preferable to continue using the same professionals to service your new home once you move in, this is not always possible. It is helpful to have their contact information to learn about the work that was done and to ask questions if something breaks. If it is possible, by all means, stick with the same maintenance team.”
You’ve got questions? We – and the sellers – have the answers. With an experienced real estate professional from DeLeon Sheffield at your side, you can be sure you’re buying the right house – at the right price and in the right condition – to call home.
Because at DeLeon Sheffield Company, ‘We’re More Than Realty; We’re Family.’
