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What questions should I ask at an open house?

Short Answer

Ask practical questions: how long the home has been listed, why the owner is selling, the age of the roof, HVAC, and water heater, any known issues, and the HOA or condo fees and rules. Also ask about the neighborhood and commute. Write your questions down and take notes as you tour.

Start with the home's history

Ask how long the home has been on the market and why the owner is selling. This can tell you a lot about the pricing and the motivation.

You can also ask about any price changes and what the current price includes.

Ask about the major systems

The age and condition of the roof, the HVAC system, and the water heater matter most, because they are the most expensive items to replace.

Ask whether there are any known issues, and do not be afraid to ask directly.

Ask about the community

If the home has an HOA or condo association, ask about the fees, what they cover, and the rules.

Ask about the neighborhood, the commute, and any recent updates, because a home is also about where it sits.

What to watch for in South Florida

In South Florida, ask about insurance and flood history, because those affect the real cost of the home.

Also note the home's condition relative to its age, and take pictures and notes so the details do not blur together.

How Nanci can help

I help you remember the details that matter most and separate the meaningful answers from the noise.

Bring me along or let me prepare you with the right questions before you tour, and we will make every open house count.

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