HOME BUYING GUIDE: 15 QUESTIONS TO ASK AT OPEN HOUSES

This page guides potential homebuyers on critical questions to ask during open houses in Sacramento to understand properties more comprehensively. Essential queries include seller motivations, property conditions, neighborhood insights, and potential costs which help assess the true value and lifestyle a home offers.

• 📈 Check how long the house has been on the market to identify potential issues or negotiation room.
• 🧐 Ask about the seller’s reason for selling to uncover any hidden issues.
• 💼 Inquire how many offers are there to understand competition.
• 📅 Confirm when offers are being reviewed to plan your strategy.
• 🔍 Verify if inspections have been conducted to gauge the home's condition.
• 🔨 Explore past renovations or additions to determine property care quality.
• 📡 Identify utility providers and costs to effectively budget ongoing expenses.

📈 A longer market duration might indicate issues or give room for negotiation.

🧐 This question can reveal potential pitfalls and guide your offer strategy.

💼 This will help you gauge competition and adjust your offer accordingly.

📅 Sometimes there will be a set deadline to submit an offer on a home.

📥 Other times offers will be reviewed with the seller as they are received.

This can provide insight into the urgency necessary to get an offer written and submitted.

🔍 Find out if the seller has had a home inspection or pest inspection performed.

These reports will contain vital insights into the home's condition.

🔨 Understanding past renovations can indicate property maintenance quality.

🗄️ If there have been any additions to the property, find out if they were permitted.

💡 Roof, plumbing, and HVAC systems are especially pertinent.

📝 Washer/Dryer, Refrigerator, Spas, A/V equipment, etc are NOT included by default.

🛠️ Ask about anything that may or may not be included with the sale.

🔍 If appliances are included, search the internet for recall notices or any other potential defects of the brand/model.

☀️ Learn about the solar lease provider, term and cost.

⏳ How old are the solar panels?

📡 Find out the local service providers for TV, Internet, Electricty, Gas, etc.

💵 Budgeting for ongoing expenses is crucial.

🧾 Sometimes the seller will provide a recent copy of an energy bill for reference.

🚌 Learn about the local school district, preschools, daycare options, etc.

🚶‍♂️ Proximity to parks and shops can enhance quality of life.

🏠 A Homeowners Association will have addtional fees and rules can affect your decision and your financing.

🛡️ Understanding local safety helps gauge future comfort.