10 Questions to Ask When Touring a Home
Buying a home is one of the most significant financial decisions you’ll ever make, and touring homes is a crucial step in finding the right fit. While it’s easy to get caught up in the aesthetics of a home, it’s essential to look beyond the surface and ask the right questions during your tour. This will help you make a more informed decision and ensure the property meets your current and future needs.
To help you make the most of your home tours, The Lee Arnold Team has compiled a list of essential questions to ask when viewing a home.
1. What is the Condition of the Roof and Windows?
One of the most expensive repairs for homeowners involves the roof and windows, so assessing their condition early on is essential.
- Roof: Ask the seller or agent how old the roof is and whether any recent repairs or replacements have been made. A typical roof lasts 20-30 years, depending on the materials used, so knowing its age will give you a sense of how soon a replacement might be needed.
- Windows: Inquire about the age and type of windows installed. Energy-efficient windows can save you money on utilities, while older windows may need replacing soon to improve insulation.
2. How Old are the Major Systems and Appliances?
Major systems such as HVAC, plumbing, and electrical play a massive role in the comfort and safety of your home, so understanding their condition is critical.
- HVAC System: Ask how old the heating and cooling systems are and when they were last serviced. Well-maintained systems can last 15-20 years, but a neglected system may need to be replaced sooner.
- Water Heater: Find out the age and type of the water heater (tank or tankless) and when it was last inspected. This can impact your future utility costs and potential replacement timelines.
- Appliances: If the home has appliances like the refrigerator, washer, and dryer, ask how old they are and if any warranties are still in place.
3. Are There Any Known Issues or Repairs Needed?
While sellers must disclose major issues, it’s always a good idea to ask directly if there are any known problems with the home. This includes structural issues, water damage, pest infestations, or any necessary repairs that may not be immediately visible.
- Foundation: Check for cracks or signs of shifting. Foundation repairs can be costly, so it’s important to be aware of any concerns upfront.
- Water Damage: Look for signs of water stains on ceilings, floors, and walls. Ask if there has been any history of leaks or flooding and how these issues were addressed.
4. What are the Neighborhood and Community Like?
The location of the home is just as important as the property itself. You’ll want to understand whether the neighborhood meets your lifestyle needs.
- Safety: Ask about the area’s safety and if there have been any recent concerns. You can also research crime rates online for additional peace of mind.
- Schools: If you have children or plan to, inquire about the quality of nearby schools. Even if you don’t have kids, a good school district can positively impact resale value.
- Amenities: Ask about the proximity to parks, grocery stores, restaurants, public transportation, and other amenities that are important to you.
5. How Long Has the Property Been on the Market?
Knowing how long the home has been on the market can provide insight into the seller’s motivation and the potential for negotiation.
- Time on Market: If the property has been on the market for several months, the seller may be more open to negotiating the price or terms. Conversely, a home that just hit the market may have more competition and fewer opportunities for negotiation.
- Price Adjustments: Ask if there have been any price reductions since the property was listed. This could indicate that the seller is eager to close a deal and may be willing to negotiate further.
6. What is the Seller’s Timeline?
Understanding the seller’s timeline can help you strategize your offer. If the seller needs to move quickly due to a job relocation or other factors, they may be more willing to accept a lower offer or flexible terms.
- Closing Timeline: Ask the seller how soon they need to close. If they’re in a hurry, you might be able to secure a better deal by offering a quicker closing.
7. What’s Included in the Sale?
Not everything you see during the tour is automatically included in the sale of the home, so it’s essential to clarify what stays and what goes.
- Appliances: Ask if appliances like the refrigerator, washer, dryer, or any other key items are included in the sale. If not, you may want to factor in the cost of purchasing them.
Fixtures and Furniture: Clarify whether light fixtures, window treatments, or outdoor structures like sheds or playsets will remain with the home.
8. How Much Are the Property Taxes and Utilities?
Budgeting for your new home involves more than just the mortgage payment. Ask about property taxes, utility costs, and any homeowners association (HOA) fees to fully understand your financial commitment.
- Property Taxes: Request information on the current property tax rate and how it has changed over the years. Some areas may experience frequent increases, which could affect your budget.
- Utilities: Inquire about the average monthly utility costs, including water, gas, electricity, and trash services. This will help you estimate your ongoing expenses.
- HOA Fees: If the property is part of an HOA, ask about the fees and what they cover. Some HOAs include services like landscaping or community amenities, while others may have stricter rules and regulations.
9. Is There Room for Future Expansion or Remodeling?
Even if the home meets your current needs, it’s important to think about the future. Ask about the potential for expansions or remodeling to ensure the property can grow with you.
- Zoning Laws: If you’re considering adding an extension, pool, or other modifications, check whether local zoning laws allow for such changes.
Renovation History: Ask if any major renovations have been done to the home. It’s important to ensure that any work completed was done to code and with proper permits.
10. What Are the Estimated Closing Costs?
Finally, be sure to discuss the estimated closing costs with your agent or the seller’s agent. These costs typically include taxes, loan origination fees, title insurance, and other expenses that can add up quickly.Closing Costs Breakdown: Ask for an estimate of the total closing costs and who is responsible for paying them. In some cases, you may be able to negotiate for the seller to cover a portion of these costs.
Conclusion: Be Informed and Prepared
Asking the right questions during your home tour can save you from unpleasant surprises down the road and ensure you’re making a well-informed decision. At The Lee Arnold Team, we’re here to guide you through every step of the home-buying process, from touring homes to closing the deal. Our goal is to help you find a home that fits your needs and budget while ensuring you feel confident in your investment.
If you or someone you know is looking to buy or sell a home in Spokane or Coeur d’Alene, visit our website at https://theleearnoldteam.com/. Don’t forget to share this post to help others on their home-buying journey!
Ready to start touring homes? Contact The Lee Arnold Team today for expert guidance and support throughout your home-buying journey.