Top Questions to Ask Before Making an Offer on a Home

When you’re on the verge of making an offer on a home, excitement can sometimes cloud your judgment. It’s easy to fall in love with an inviting layout, freshly painted walls, or a lush backyard. However, before you put pen to paper, you need to dig deeper and ask the right questions. After all, buying a home is one of the most important investments you’ll ever make.

The more you know about the property, its features, and what lies ahead, the better equipped you’ll be to make a decision that truly supports your lifestyle and future goals.

A little curiosity now can save you a lot of headaches later. By asking smart questions, you can uncover essential information about the home’s condition and whether it genuinely fits your plans for the future.

Let’s walk through the most essential questions you should have ready before you make an offer.

• Understand the condition of the property, not just the cosmetic appeal.
• Consider whether the home aligns with your long-term plans and lifestyle needs.
• Learn which repairs or maintenance might be required.
• Ask questions about the home’s history and any recent upgrades.
• Get clarity on ongoing costs.

Before you get swept up in the excitement of making an offer, you need to know the property inside and out. Go beyond what you can see during a tour. Start with the basics: When was the home built? Has it had any recent renovations? Ask for a full list of updates and repairs, and request documentation if possible. This can reveal how well the home has been cared for and whether there are any potential red flags.

Pay close attention to major systems, such as the roof, plumbing, electrical, and HVAC. These components can be expensive to repair or replace. Don’t be shy about asking how old they are or if they’ve been updated. A newer roof or a recently replaced furnace could mean fewer worries (and fewer expenses) down the road.

You’ll also want to know about the age and efficiency of appliances and fixtures. Energy-efficient upgrades can make a notable difference in your monthly costs.

In addition to physical features, ask about the property’s lot and surroundings. What are the boundaries? Is there a survey available? Are there any easements or shared driveways? These details can impact how you use the property and its resale value in the future.

• When was the home built, and have any significant renovations been completed?
• How old are the roof, HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems?
• Are there any warranties on appliances or recent upgrades?
• Has the home ever had water damage or other significant issues?
• Are there any known issues with the lot, boundaries, or shared spaces?

Buying a home isn’t just about what looks great right now; it’s about making sure the property fits your goals both today and in the years to come.

Start by thinking about your lifestyle. Does the home have enough space for your current needs, and could it accommodate future changes? For example, is there room to grow, work from home, and host guests comfortably?

Consider your commute, access to nearby amenities, and how the neighborhood fits with your daily life. Even if a home feels perfect, a location that doesn’t support your routine can lead to regrets. Ask about community developments that might affect your quality of life or the home’s value in the future. This could include planned construction, zoning changes, or new businesses moving into the area.

• Does the layout and square footage meet your current and future needs?
• Are there any planned developments nearby that could impact the home?
• Will this home suit your lifestyle and potential changes over time?

No home is perfect, even if it looks move-in ready. Before you make an offer, it’s crucial to ask about the property’s maintenance history and any known issues that might require attention. Find out what upgrades, if any, have been completed recently and what might be on the horizon. This gives you a clear idea of what you’re stepping into and what it might cost.

Request a copy of the seller’s disclosure statement, which should outline any known problems or previous repairs. Don’t overlook the importance of regular maintenance, such as servicing HVAC systems, cleaning the gutters, or treating for pests. These routine tasks can have a major impact on the longevity and comfort of your new home. It’s always better to go into the process with your eyes wide open.

• What maintenance has been performed regularly on the home?
• Are there any outstanding repairs or known maintenance tasks?
• Have there been any recent inspections for pests, mold, or structural issues?
• What are the typical ongoing maintenance costs for this property?

When you’re ready to make an offer, it’s time to ensure that the price accurately reflects the home’s condition and the market. If the property needs repairs or upgrades, factor those costs into your offer. Together, we will determine a fair price based on comparable sales in the area and realistic market movements.

If you anticipate competing with other buyers, you may be tempted to skip contingencies or offer over the asking price. While this can make your offer more attractive, it’s important not to overextend yourself. We’ll help you stick to your budget and prioritize contingencies that protect your interests, such as inspection and financing.

A thoughtful, well-researched offer shows the seller you’re serious — and helps you avoid buyer’s remorse.

• What have similar homes in the area sold for recently?
• What repairs or upgrades need to be factored into your offer?
• Are there any contingencies you need to include to protect yourself?
• How competitive is the local market right now?
• Can you negotiate for credits, closing costs, or repairs?

Before making an offer, ask about the property’s age, condition, recent repairs, major systems, average utility costs, ongoing fees, and any known issues. Be sure to request disclosures, documentation, and maintenance history if available.

Evaluate whether the home’s layout, size, and location align with your lifestyle and plans for the future. Consider whether it offers room to grow, accommodates remote work, or fits anticipated changes in your life.

Learning about maintenance and repairs ahead of time helps you understand the true cost of ownership and avoid surprises.

We’ll research recent sales of similar homes, factor in the cost of any necessary repairs, and discuss the current market. We will structure your offer with appropriate contingencies.

Choosing the right home is about more than just falling in love at first sight. By asking the right questions before you make an offer, you set yourself up for success.

With the right questions in your toolkit, you can navigate the offer process with clarity and confidence.

Ready to make your next move in Buckhead with total confidence? Partner with The Katie McGuirk Team for expert guidance every step of the way. With top-tier local insight and a commitment to personalized service, we will help you find the perfect home — and negotiate the best terms — so you can focus on what matters most.