Buying a home is a significant investment, and having the right real estate agent by your side can make all the difference. To ensure that you’re investing in something that will prove worthwhile, you need to ask the right kind of questions. Your agent would provide valuable information about the property, the marketplace and the process of buying the house. Below are essential questions you should ask when you’re working with the services of a real estate agent.
1. How Long Has the Property Been on the Market?
Discovering the amount of time the house has been on the market will give you leverage. If the property has been on the market for several months or longer, the seller may have become willing to negotiate on terms or price. If the house just came on the market, you might need to act quickly if you’re interested.
2. What Is the Market Like in This Area?
Ask about the recent sale prices in the neighborhood. Are homes being sold above or below asking prices? How aggressive is the marketplace? A good agent will provide you with comparative prices (comps) that will help you determine if the house is reasonably priced.
3. Are There Any Issues With the Property?
Sellers are required to disclose any known issues, but you should also ask your agent if they’ve encountered something that would cause you concern. These include structural issues, water damage, pest invasion, and zoning restrictions. The home inspection will find most issues, but you’ll save money and time by knowing upfront.
4. What’s Included in the Sale?
Detail what is included with the house. Are the appliances, fixtures, or patio furniture remaining? Some sellers leave certain items behind, so it’s best to know what’s included so there are no surprises down the road.
5. What Are the Total Costs of Buying This Home?
Aside from the purchase price, there are other expenses that need to be considered, such as closing costs, property taxes, homeowners’ association (HOA) fees, and insurance. Ask your agent to provide an estimate of these expenses to ensure they will fit within your budget.
6. How Strong Is the Seller’s Position?
It’s good that you know the seller’s motivation. Is the seller desperate to sell? Is there another offer on the property? If you know that, you’re better able to prepare the offer
7. What’s the Future of the Neighborhood?
What does the neighbourhood’s Future Hold? Ask about the area’s future development, school district quality, crime rates, and property value trends. A home’s value is in its location, so it can inform your decision to know the area’s future growth
Final Thoughts
Intelligent and informed buying results from asking the right questions. You must have a real estate agent who will answer you in simple terms so that you may go ahead and complete the process of buying the home confidently. Shop around don’t rush and choose one that meets your current as well as future needs.