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Before submitting an offer on a home, it’s essential to be pre-qualified—or even better, pre-approved—by a reputable lender. This not only clarifies your budget but also strengthens your position as a serious buyer. Sellers are more likely to accept offers from buyers who have proven financial readiness.
 

Once you've found the right home, it's time to prepare a strong and competitive offer.
 

Questions to Ask Before Submitting Your Offer
 

While sellers are legally required in most states to disclose known defects, disclosures don’t always tell the full story. To gain a clearer understanding of the property, consider asking these insightful questions before finalizing your offer:
 

1. Why is the seller moving?
 

Understanding the seller’s motivation may offer insight into the home’s true value or reveal potential issues. If the seller is leaving due to dissatisfaction with the home or neighborhood, this could influence your offer strategy.
 

2. What did the seller originally pay for the home?
 

While the purchase price isn’t the sole indicator of current value, it can provide context—especially if the seller hasn’t made major upgrades. In some cases, this information can open up negotiations or lead to creative financing options.
 

3. What does the seller like most and least about the property?
 

This question can uncover lifestyle preferences that may not align with yours. For example, if the seller praises the home’s location in a “lively neighborhood,” but you prefer quiet, that could be a red flag.
 

4. Has the home had any past issues?
 

Ask about previous repairs or recurring problems, such as water leaks or structural damage. Even if an issue has been addressed, it’s important to verify that repairs were done properly and didn’t cause hidden damage.
 

5. Are there any neighborhood concerns or nuisances?
 

Inquire about potential deal-breakers like noisy neighbors, barking dogs, frequent traffic, or future development plans. This could offer clues about why the seller is moving and help you avoid surprises later.
 

6. How are the local schools rated?
 

School quality significantly impacts property values, even if you don’t have children. Asking this can give you an idea of how desirable the area may be for future buyers as well.
 

🗝 Know Before You Commit
 

Asking the right questions can help you not only determine whether a home is right for you but also shape a smarter, more informed offer. Your real estate professional is there to guide you through these conversations and help you evaluate the answers with expert insight.