If you are shopping for a house, you probably plan to view several before deciding on the one. It can be tempting to make a decision based on your first impressions, but you need to consider many factors before deciding whether a house is right for you. Here are some questions to ask the real estate agent.
How Old is the House?
An old house is not necessarily a deal breaker, but it should prompt you to ask more questions. Ask about recent renovations, the age of the roof and when appliances were last upgraded. An old house could have major problems, but it is also possible that all of those issues have already been addressed and the house is in excellent condition.
Are You Aware of Any Problems With the House?
The real estate agent can tell you if the house needs work or if there are any recent or planned changes in the neighborhood that might affect your decision.
Is Anything Else Included With the House?
The property may include a shed, guesthouse or furniture. Make sure you know where the property line is so you know how much room you have to work with if you are thinking about adding a shed, fence or pool in the future.
How Long Has the Current Owner Lived in the House?
If the owner has lived in the house for decades, that indicates that he or she is happy with the property. If the owner is moving after a short time, there could be a significant problem with the house or the neighborhood.
Why is the Owner Selling the House?
If the seller had a problem with the house or did not like the neighborhood or school system, you should ask follow-up questions. If the owner is moving to start a new job, he or she may be in a hurry to sell, which means you may be able to negotiate a lower price.
How Long Has the House Been on the Market?
If the house was just listed and is exactly what you are looking for, you should act quickly. If it has been on the market for a long time, that could indicate that there is a problem or that it is overpriced. If the owner is having trouble selling, ask the real estate agent why.
Is the Price Negotiable?
Some sellers are firm in their price requirements, but others are more flexible. If the owner wants to sell quickly, or if the house has been on the market for a long time, you may be able to negotiate a lower price.
Ask A Lot of Questions
Viewing a house is the perfect opportunity to gather all of the information you need to make an educated decision on whether it is right for you. A real estate agent has a wealth of information about the house, the neighborhood and the owner’s circumstances that can help you make a wise decision. Ask plenty of questions so you can make the right choice.
