What to Ask Before Putting in an Offer on a Home

If you're in the market for a new home, you know this process can take a while. Instead of giving up and buying just any home, be sure you're making a good investment by asking these questions first.

Questions to Ask Before Purchasing a Home

There's a lot of pressure that comes with buying a home. Not only is this a huge monetary investment, but it's also a longterm deal. If you're worried about making the best choice possible, don't make an offer on a home until you've gotten all of your questions answered. If this is your first time buying a home and you're not sure what to ask, start with these basic questions.

Why Is the Home for Sale?

One of the first questions you should as is why the home is for sale. This question can reveal a lot and can lead to even more questions. You may learn that the home has some issues that the owner doesn't want to deal with or they may be moving for work-related reasons. It's also a good idea to ask how long they've lived in the home, since a short stay may point at issues as well. Another follow up question to ask is when the current owners plan to vacate the home since you want to make sure your moving plans align with theirs.

How Long Has the Home Been Listed?

How long the home has been on the market can tell you about the interest in it. For example, if the home has been on the market for a while, there may be some issues causing potential buyers to lose interest in it before putting in an offer. Do your best to find out why it isn't selling before making your decision to put in an offer or not. In some cases, there may be no issues with the home itself, but the seller may be stubborn about their selling conditions. If you are interested in the home, you can even use its extended time on the market to negotiate the price down a bit.

What Is the Price of the Home Based On?

Pricing a home involves many factors, so ask what was taken into account when the asking price was determined. Usually, looking at the selling price of similar homes in the area will give you a clear idea of a reasonable price range. If you're concerned that the home is overpriced and you'll end up getting ripped off, a home appraisal can give you a better idea of what the home is actually worth. Also, don't be afraid to negotiate with the seller.

Don't forget to ask about the home's title. You want to be absolutely sure the home's title is clean and doesn't have any clouds that can cause serious issues later. Even after getting this information, buying title insurance at closing is a must. To run a title search and to protect your investment, contact the title insurance experts at Advanced Title Company today by calling (970) 255-7677.

What Is Included in the Sale?

It's hard to know what exactly is included in the home if you don't ask. Different sellers will include different things in their selling conditions, so be sure to ask what is included instead of assuming everything you see and want will be included in the asking price. Things to consider include closing costs, title insurance, and amenities in the home. Again, you can negotiate on some of these things, especially if you'll have to take care of large repairs after moving in.

What Condition Is the Home In?

It's easy enough to make a home look sturdy and well taken care of, but this doesn't mean it's actually sound. Before getting a home inspection and being surprised by the actual condition of the home, ask the seller what condition the home is actually in. You may learn the home is in dire need of major repairs which can eat away at your budget. In other cases, the home may have been taken care of very well through the years. Don't be afraid to ask for receipts and warranties for the maintenance services that have been performed in the home since these will be very telling and reassuring.

Purchase Title Insurance in Mesa County

Now that you're ready to purchase a home, don't get carried away and forget all about title insurance. Before closing on the home, be sure title insurance is included in your deal. To learn more about the importance of title insurance, contact the pros at Advanced Title Company. Give them a call at (970) 255-7677 to learn more about why title insurance is a must.