5 Questions You Should Always Ask Before Buying a Home

Buying a home is one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make — and it’s okay to have a million questions. In fact, you should. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking for your forever home, knowing the right questions to ask can save you time, money, and future headaches.

Here are 5 important questions you’ll want answers to before signing those papers.

1️⃣ What’s the neighborhood like — really?

A beautiful home matters, but so does what’s around it. Ask your real estate agent about the vibe of the neighborhood. Is it family-friendly? Quiet? Up-and-coming? Are there parks nearby, good schools, or grocery stores within 10 minutes?

Pro tip: Visit the area in the evening or on weekends to get a feel for the community when everyone’s home.

2️⃣ What are the total costs beyond the sale price?

The sticker price is just the beginning. Find out about property taxes, HOA fees, utilities, insurance, and estimated maintenance costs. This will help you budget realistically and avoid surprises later.

Ask your agent: “Can you give me a ballpark of the total monthly costs for this home?”

3️⃣ How long has this property been on the market?

If a home’s been listed for a while, there could be a reason — and it might be a chance to negotiate. On the flip side, if it just hit the market and already has multiple offers, you’ll want to move quickly.

Pro tip: Ask your agent about the average days on market in that neighborhood too.

🛠️ 4️⃣ Are there any recent repairs or major upgrades?

A freshly renovated kitchen is great, but what about the roof, plumbing, or HVAC system? These big-ticket items can make or break a deal. Knowing their condition can help you plan future expenses or request repairs before closing.

5️⃣ What happens if the inspection reveals problems?

Inspections can uncover everything from minor repairs to major deal-breakers. It’s good to know upfront how this process works, what options you’ll have, and what you can ask the seller to fix or credit.

Ask: “What’s the typical process if the inspection finds something serious?”

Final Thoughts

Your real estate agent is your partner in this journey — and no question is too small. A good agent will welcome your curiosity and help you feel confident every step of the way.

If you’re ready to start your home search (or just want to chat about what’s happening in the market), reach out today. I’d love to be part of your home story.

👉 Would you like to see a guide for first-time home sellers next week? Drop me a message — I’d be happy to write one for you!