What remodeling/painting/re-carpeting will I have to do? Can I afford it?
Is this neighborhood safe?
Is the location right for me?
How would my stuff look in this house? Will I have to buy more furniture?
Is there enough room for my family?
What kind of heating/cooling system does it have? How old is it?
Are the appliances included in the sale, or will I have to buy my own? Are they in good condition?
Is there enough closet space?
How are the bathrooms? Are the sinks chipped and the mirrors rusted? Is the lighting adequate or will I have to fix these things?
Is this a low or high maintenance yard?
What is the water source?
Is the house on a septic tank?
How old is the roof?
Let your realtor help you answer these questions:
What price can I offer on this house?
What is the price per square foot (it matters for resale later!)?
What will my monthly payment be?
How do you think the resale will be for this house in this neighborhood?
What’s the age of the house?
Are there any problems with the neighborhood, such as flood plains, sinkholes, fault lines, or anything else?
Has there been termite damage to the house?
Are there any easements on the property?
How long has the house been for sale?
Make Your Offer - Once you decide on the house you want, talk to you realtor about what to offer in terms of price. Never offer the full price unless there are other offers on the table. If the house has been for sale for a long time, you can try to make a low-ball offer, but don’t expect them to take it. Once you make your offer, the sellers are free to take it or make a counter offer. Then it’s up to you again to decide if you want the house for that price.