Attending an open house is a significant step in the home-buying process and requires thoughtful consideration. Whether you’re simply exploring available properties or seriously contemplating a purchase, asking the right questions is essential. This allows you to gather pertinent information about the property, including its price, condition, and other relevant details, empowering you to make an informed decision.
While there are numerous questions you could ask at an open house, only a select few are truly crucial for obtaining the information you need. We’ve compiled a list of such questions to ensure you’re fully prepared for your open house tour. Take a moment to review them below and arm yourself with the knowledge you need to make the best decision for your future home.
Related: Texas Roadhouse Interview Questions / Questions To Ask When Buying A House In Florida
Questions to ask at an open house
1. How long has the house been on the market?
2. Have there been any price reductions?
3. Why are the owners selling?
4. Have there been any offers?
5. What’s an ideal timeline look like for the seller?
6. Are there contingencies the seller will/won’t accept?
7. What are the biggest issues?
8. Has the home been tested for mold, radon, lead, or asbestos?
9. Is it in a FEMA What are the biggest issues?
10. Has the home been tested for mold, radon, lead, or asbestos?
11. Is it in a FEMA flood zone?
12. Do the current owners have flood insurance? How much is it?
13. Is there or has there ever been an underground oil tank?
14. Have there been any extensions, renovations, or updates? When? Are the permits available?
15. When was the room painted?
16. How old is the carpet? What flooring is underneath?
17. How old are the windows? (Visually check the seals and sills)
18. If there are yard fixtures (fountain, firepit, etc.) do they stay with the property?
19. If there is a pool, how old is the equipment?
20. Are there areas in the yard where water doesn’t drain?
21. How well does water drain away from the house?
22. Are there or have there ever been pests? What kind? What mitigation has been done?
23. What’s the sun exposure like in summertime? Wintertime?
24. Do the sellers use a lawn service? How much does it cost?
25. Are the window treatments included?
26. Can I measure to make sure my furniture will fit?
27. When was the last time the roof was replaced?
28. How old are the home’s major systems (electric, plumbing, HVAC)?
29. Have the sellers kept pets in the home?
30. Can I see a Seller’s Property Disclosure?
31. Have the sellers done upgrades or renovations? Do they have the permits?
32. Wastewater — sewer or septic?
33. How much are utilities?
34. Have there been any more water problems since the sump pump was replaced?
35. How extensive was the termite damage listed on the disclosure?
36. Have the owners done any further mold testing?
37. Do the current owners have flood insurance? How much is it?
38. Is there or has there ever been an underground oil tank?
39. When was the last time the roof was replaced?
40. How old are the home’s major systems (electric, plumbing, HVAC)?
41. Have the sellers kept pets in the home?
42. Can I see a Seller’s Property Disclosure?
43. Have the sellers done upgrades or renovations? Do they have the permits?
44. Wastewater — sewer or septic?
45. How much are utilities?
46. Are there contingencies the seller will want to make?
47. Are the sellers offering any incentives?
48. What are the active, pending, and recently sold comps?
49. Is it vacant? How long has it been vacant?
50. How old is the building?
Related: Signs Of Ant Infestation In House / Pottermore House Quiz
Conclusion –
Here’s a refined set of top-notch inquiries tailored for open houses, curated by seasoned experts. These questions are designed to yield the precise information you seek about the property. Don’t hesitate to pose them during your visit to ensure you make a well-informed decision about your potential purchase. We trust these questions will prove invaluable to prospective buyers embarking on open house tours.
