Here are important questions to ask when touring a house to help you gather key information and make an informed decision: General Questions:
- Why is the house for sale?
- How long has the house been on the market?
- How many offers has the seller received?
- Is the seller motivated or in a hurry to sell?
- Are there any known structural issues or repairs needed?
- Have there been any recent renovations or updates? When?
- What appliances and fixtures are included in the sale?
- Are there any homeowner association (HOA) fees or rules?
- What utilities does the house use and what are monthly costs?
- Has the home experienced water damage, leaks, or pest problems?
- Is the home located in a flood zone or high-risk natural disaster area?
Questions by Room:
- Living Room and Bedrooms: Are windows and outlets functional? Any drafts? What are the room dimensions?
- Kitchen: How old are the appliances? Any signs of water/fire damage? Are cabinets updated?
- Bathrooms: Any leaks or drainage issues? Age of fixtures?
- Basement: Is it finished? Any mold or moisture problems? Does it have a sump pump?
Exterior and Neighborhood:
- How old is the roof and gutters? Are gutters functioning properly?
- Is the yard easy to maintain? Any landscaping concerns?
- What are nearby amenities like schools, parks, shopping, and public transportation?
- What is the community vibe and neighborhood safety?
Additional Considerations:
- How is the condition of electrical outlets, wiring, and circuit breaker box?
- Are there working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors?
- Are there any disputes with neighbors or easements on the property?
- What is the estimated cost of home maintenance and repairs going forward?
- Can you see yourself living comfortably in this home considering space, layout, and future needs?
Asking these questions during your house tour will help you get a comprehensive view of the property’s condition, value, and suitability for your lifestyle so you can make a confident offer.
