4 Important Questions To Ask At An Open House

Open houses can be a lot of fun, and they are also an opportunity to ask the property’s owner or agent some important questions. Don’t miss out on the chance to get this information directly from the source. If you have questions or hesitations, a simple conversation can clear things up quickly. While on the spot, you might not be able to come up with the questions that will help you make your decision, so here are four important questions to ask when you go to a Marco Island open house.

Find out why the owner is moving.

The owner’s reason for moving could be related to work or a change in the family structure, but it could also be something related to the neighborhood. Let’s say the neighbor tells you they want to move because there are just too many children around. If you like things quite, that might be a reason to not choose the home for your own. If you have kids and want them to have a vibrant childhood of playing outside, suddenly the owner’s reason for selling might be your reason for buying.

Ask about other offers.

It is perfectly acceptable to ask the owner of their agent (or both) if there has been other offers already submitted. You may be competing with other buyers. Now, the owner might not give you a straight answer, but the agent is really not permitted to make things up. They obviously don’t have to disclose the terms of any offer though. Still, it wouldn’t hurt to ask, especially if you seem to be having a good conversation with the owner and they seem to like you. Many times people will go to great efforts to try to sell their home to someone that they would like to see living in it. Help them realize you’re perfect for the home by telling them how you see yourself in it.

Ask about special association costs.

Generally association fees will be fully disclosed in a listing. For example, you’ll be able to easily learn of HOA fees from a listing. But you might also find out if there are any other association costs planned in the near future. Will the HOA expect you to go in on a new community pool that they just voted on, but that aren’t currently included? Is there any pending litigation within the community? Do they have a copy of newsletters from the HOA so you can know more?

Will any furniture or appliances be included?

It’s easy to get listings confused when you’re seeing so many potential homes. While at an open house, ask to see any furniture or appliances that will be included in the sale. Let’s say the grand piano will be included in the sale. Ask to see it while you’re there. Check out the dishwasher and appliances, make sure there aren’t missing racks or other things that make the appliance less valuable than it seems on paper.

Also, if you see something there that you like, such as a custom table or artwork that seems to have been made just for that location, it’s OK to ask if it can be included in the sale. Many times, they will be happy to sell them at a large discount, especially if they are moving in order to scale down for retirement.

 

Are You Buying a Home on Marco Island?

Considering buying a home on Marco Island? We’d love to help you find one that’s just right for your needs.

First, check out available Marco Island area properties using this helpful search tool. If it’s easier, you can just call us at 239-821-7926 or get in touch with us online to let us know what you’re looking for. We’re happy to contact you however you prefer. Then, we’ll start searching our databases right away using criteria you specify!

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