Questions to Ask

There are many things to consider when selecting a home that’s right for you. If you haven’t already, you might wish to consider the following:

Location

Is the home located close to your workplace or to schools/daycare for your children?

  • Is public transportation an issue?
  • Is the area increasing or decreasing in value?
  • Do you have friends or family in the area?
  • Are neighboring homes well kept?
  • Are there professionals, such as doctors and dentists, nearby?
  • Is there a playground in the area?
  • What is the distance to the nearest hospital or fire station?

Price

  • Does the home you are looking at fit into your budget?

Living Requirements

  • Does the home meet requirements for number of rooms?
  • Is there a garage?
  • The home may be adequate now, but will it meet our needs in say 3 to 5 years?

Repairs/Renovations

  • Does the home require immediate repairs?
  • Will renovations be rquired to adapt the home for your use?
  • Is the home ‘dated’ and in need of upgrades?
  • What will all of this cost, and is it considered in our budget?

Utilities

  • Are heating systems adequate, and in good working order?
  • Does the home have its own well and septic, or does it have municipal services?

Landscaping

  • Have the grounds been well maintained?
  • Are the grounds properly graded to provide good drainage?
  • Have trees, shrubs or flowers been planted?

Other relevant information

  • Are there any municipal charges outstanding?
  • What is the zoning for the area? Is it likely to change?
  • Why is the owner selling? Is there a problem with the home or neighborhood?
  • How long has the home been on the market? This could also be an indication of a problem with either the home or the neighborhood. Closer examination might be called for.