The experienced team at Northside Realty has put together a list of 5 questions to ask at an open house inspection.
Buying a home is a huge commitment, and open house inspections can either make or break a sale. While technology and other online viewing platforms are an excellent way for prospective buyers to see a property, nothing beats the experience of an in-person viewing.
For sellers it also creates the opportunity for competition, and the chance to reach a higher asking price.
If you really like a property, keep reading below to see a range of important questions to ask the real estate agent when you attend the open house inspection.
What should I ask at an open house?
1. Why is the vendor selling, and how long has the house been on the market?
This information can help a prospective buyer with negotiations later on.
For example, if the seller has already purchased a home subject to sale, they may want to seal the deal quicker and you may be able to negotiate a better price.
2. Have there been any improvements made to the property?
Ask if any extensive renovations have taken place. If there has been work carried out, it’s also important to find out if it was approved and certified by council.
3. What is the price expectation?
A property may be listed without a price because the agent and seller are trying to see what the market is prepared to pay.
But if there is no listing price, it’s vital to ask what price range they are willing to accept. You will then be able to determine if the home is within your budget.
4. How much interest has there been in the property? Are there any offers already on the table?
If you are very serious about the property (and already planning where your furniture will go) you will want to know how much interest it’s already received.
To avoid losing the home to another interested party, you may also need to put your best offer forward right from the get-go.
5. Apartment buyers can ask questions including: Are pets allowed in the complex? How much are Body Corporate fees?
If you don’t find out about pets before moving day your furry best friend might not allowed to stay, and then you’ll be left searching for a new home for them.
Also, Body Corporate fees are on top of your rates, and can be quite hefty in some complexes – especially when the facilities include a shared pool.
Need more help?
We understand just how involved the house hunting process can be – but if you need a little more guidance, our blog here is very useful! It details all the ins and outs of inspecting a property’s interior and exterior before you make an offer.
Other things to keep in mind at open house inspection
- Current COVID-19 restrictions and regulations: Practise social distancing and be respectful to others, use hand sanitiser, wear a mask, bring your own pen and don’t touch anything.
- Found your dream home? Arrange a second inspection: Show you are a serious buyer and arrange a second viewing of the property as soon as possible. This follow up inspection provides the opportunity for you to have an exclusive viewing where you can ask as many questions as you like.
- Build a rapport with the agent and make an impression: If you miss out on this property, they may have another one for you.
- Not the right property? If this property isn’t for you, ask if you can be included on the agent’s buyer database to receive regular listing emails (even before they are listed!)
5 questions to ask at an Open House Inspection
Northside Realty is here to help with any real estate questions you may have.
Find out more by calling us on (07) 3264 4033 or send an online message here.
Looking to buy, sell or rent property? With a professionally driven team and proven track record, Northside Realty are determined to get you the highest price. Contact Northside Realty today.
Northside Realty cover Albany Creek, Bunya, Bridgeman Downs, McDowall, Cashmere, Eatons Hill, Warner and surrounding suburbs.
