What to Ask when Viewing a House

Purchasing your first home is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make in your lifetime. It’s an exciting but overwhelming process, and viewing potential homes can sometimes feel like a whirlwind of emotions and choices. It’s easy to fall in love with a property at first sight, but asking the right questions during your initial visit can save you time, money, and a lot of frustration in the long run. To help guide your decision-making process, here are the top 5 questions to ask when viewing a home for the first time.

1. What’s the Asking Price and How Long Has the Home Been on the Market?

Understanding the price of the home is the first and most crucial step in the buying process. However, the asking price isn’t the only thing you need to know. It’s important to ask how long the property has been on the market and whether the price has changed since it was listed.

Why this matters: If the home has been on the market for a long time, the seller may be more open to negotiations, especially if the listing price has been reduced several times. Conversely, if the home is brand new to the market, it may be in higher demand, and you may face competition from other buyers.

Things to look out for: Check the prices of comparable homes in the area (known as “comps”) to determine whether the asking price is fair. If it seems steep, consider asking why the seller has priced it higher than similar properties. This could be an opportunity to negotiate.

2. What’s the Condition of the Home’s Major Systems and Appliances?

When viewing a home, you want to know more than just the aesthetic appeal. You need to understand the condition of essential systems like plumbing, electrical wiring, HVAC, and the roof. Ask the seller or agent when these major systems were last updated and if there are any known issues.

Why this matters: Major repairs or replacements can cost thousands of dollars, and you want to know whether these things have been recently updated or if they’ll need work soon. For example, if the roof is older and you live in a climate with harsh winters, you may have to budget for a replacement sooner than expected.

Things to look out for: Don’t just take the seller’s word for it. Be sure to get a professional home inspection to confirm the condition of these systems. This will help avoid unpleasant surprises down the road.

3. Are There Any Known Issues or Required Repairs?

This question allows the seller to disclose any problems with the property upfront. It could be anything from water damage, foundational issues, outdated wiring, or pest infestations. Being transparent about these issues helps you make an informed decision about whether the home is a good investment.

Why this matters: Even if the home seems perfect on the surface, there may be hidden issues that could cost you money down the line. Knowing about these problems early in the process gives you the chance to negotiate repairs or price reductions before making an offer.

Things to look out for: Sometimes sellers may not be forthcoming about certain issues, so don’t hesitate to ask for documentation or inspection reports. If the seller is unwilling to provide this, it may be a red flag.

4. What’s the Neighbourhood Like?

The neighbourhood can be just as important as the home itself. Ask about the area’s safety, amenities, and any future developments that may impact the value of the property. Visit the neighbourhood at different times of day to get a feel for traffic, noise levels, and the overall atmosphere.

Why this matters: The neighbourhood will affect your quality of life and your property’s value over time. You want to ensure it’s in an area that suits your lifestyle and has the potential for future growth. For example, living in an area with good schools or near public transportation can be an added benefit if you ever decide to sell.

Things to look out for: If the home is near an industrial zone, busy roads, or commercial properties, it may be worth asking the seller or agent about potential zoning changes or plans for the area.

5. What’s the History of the Property?

It’s essential to ask about the history of the property, including previous owners, any major renovations, and whether the house has ever been in a flood zone or had any environmental issues. This information can give you insight into the long-term stability and liveability of the home.

Why this matters: Knowing the property’s history can reveal any hidden risks, such as previous flood damage or legal disputes with neighbours. Renovations, on the other hand, can increase the value of the property but may come with their own set of challenges if not done properly. For example, if a major renovation was completed without the proper permits, it could cause problems when you try to sell the house in the future.

Things to look out for: Ask if there are any ongoing legal issues or property disputes that could affect your ability to enjoy or resell the home. You can also research local public records to uncover any hidden details.

Final Thoughts

When you’re viewing homes for the first time, the goal is to gather as much information as possible to help you make an informed decision. The above questions will help you understand the price, condition, and long-term potential of the property while also shedding light on any potential problems you’ll need to address. Remember that the home buying process is a marathon, not a sprint. It’s important to stay level-headed and ask the right questions to avoid falling in love with a property that isn’t right for you.

By doing your due diligence and seeking answers to these key questions, you’ll be better equipped to find a home that meets your needs, fits your budget, and offers peace of mind for years to come.