4 Questions to Ask Before Buying a Home

Buying a home is a huge investment and once you’ve made the purchased, it’s you that’s ultimately responsible for things.

To avoid any big surprises once you move in, make sure you’re asking the right questions at the point of sale. Here are 4 that we recommend asking before signing:

1. How old are major appliances or renovations?
When it comes to replaceable parts of the home’s structure (like the roof or windows) or major appliances (like the HVAC system or water heater), the older they are the more likely you may have larger expenses on the horizon as they’re nearing the end of their lifespan.

You’ll also want to look at added sheds, decks, garages, etc. and ensure you have the proper permits and paperwork. You don’t want to find out that after you’ve purchased, your beautiful deck has to be torn down since it wasn’t approved!

2. Is anything not included with the house?
While some items may seem to come with the house — like a built-in bookcase or ceiling fixtures — the previous owners may be intending to take these post sale. Make sure to ask if anything will be left behind and ensure these items are written into your contract.

3. Are there any water related issues?
With the amount of rain and flooding Long Islanders see, you may want to inquire about water related issues. Take for example homes on the south shore, if you’re close to the water, how often does the street flood? Did it experience any damage during Sandy or other storms? Outside of storm damage, has the house ever experienced a pipe burst or sewer back up? Knowing that these issues occurred can help you keep an eye out for it happening again.

4. What are the neighbors like?
If you’re moving into a new home, you’ll likely want to know what the neighbors or local community are like. Are they young, do they have children, how is the noise level? You may also want to consider driving the neighborhood or speaking with some neighbors yourself— this could provide you with insight the seller may not disclose.

For more questions you should ask, read our previous blog here»

Then, once your sale is complete and you start to learn more about things such as property taxes, connect with us to learn how we can help! Since 1990 we have been helping homeowners in Nassau and Suffolk County reduce their property taxes, and we'd love to be able to help you next!