We all have an idea of what to ask on a showing – but we also all know the feeling of leaving a place and thinking, “Oh, I should have asked ____.” Fill in the blank.  It’s bound to happen.  So here are a few ideas about what to ask on a showing to get your thought process started.  Only you know what’s most important to you and your family, but these are some universal things to keep in mind.

Ask yourself:

  • What’s the temperature? How do you feel in the house?  Does it feel damp or drafty?  Keep the insulation and temperature climate in mind as you walk through. Not only does having good insulation keep you comfortable – it also helps you save money.
  • How do I move through the house? Do you like the flow of the house from room to room, or from inside to outside?  Think about your daily life and imagine doing it in this layout.
  • Mold or insect problems? Be on the lookout for signs of mold or insect problems. Feel free to ask about them if you see them – they can be
  • Look for amateur fixes. Homeowners often fix things themselves – we’ve all been there.  Sometimes it’s just fine, but other times, it would be nice to know that it was done by someone qualified. If something seems a little off, don’t be afraid to ask about what kind of repair was done, or who did the update.  You should be satisfied with how things were handled and not have to pay for someone else’s cheap fix later.
  • Is the yard and neighborhood safe? Especially when you have kids, this is a biggie – knowing that your kids have a safe place to play is huge. And one you shouldn’t compromise on.

Ask the agent:

  • Why are the current owners moving? While probably no one will tell you they’re moving because they hate their neighborhood, asking the question and gauging the response could help you identify what things in their home they liked and didn’t like, which is always helpful.
  • How much do utilities cost? Knowing what your monthly expenditure will be can be extremely helpful in determining what house best fits your budget.
  • The last time the home was updated? Updated appliances and the like are great, but don’t forget to ask about the features you can’t see, like the roof, plumbing or wiring.
  • Are there any issues with the house? If there are known structural problems or code violations, these are required to be disclosed to possible buyers.  Most will have a written seller’s disclosure that you can request.
  • What’s in the area? Finding out there’s a great coffee shop, a convenient grocer or a nearby playground for the kids, can all tell you a lot about the neighborhood.

Hopefully these help you know what you really want to ask on a showing!  And when you find the perfect house… give us a call!  We’re a  Christian mortgage lender, built from one family’s dream and dedication.  So we focus on getting you the best loan possible, even when others said no – because we get family and we believe in giving you our best.

Best,

Audrey

The Christian Mortgage Mom

Audrey