What is the Number One Question You Must Ask Before You Make an Offer on a House?

When it comes to buying a house, there are countless questions that come to mind. As a local Whitby real estate salesperson, I've heard them all. Questions like, "What is the neighborhood like?" and "How are the local schools?" are common and important. The accessibility to Toronto and the age of the house are also crucial factors to consider. 

However, there is one question that stands out among the rest, a question that could potentially save you thousands of dollars and a lot of headaches down the line. 

And it is, "What are the updates completed in the last 5 years?"

Now, you might be wondering why this question is so important. The answer is simple: updates can significantly impact the value of a home. They can indicate how much money you'll need to invest in the property after purchase and can also give you a sense of how well the property has been maintained.

But let's not forget about the other important questions. Here are 10 more questions you should ask, ordered by popularity:

1. What is the property's history?
While not as crucial as recent updates, the property's history can provide valuable insights into potential issues or benefits.

2. What is included in the sale?
This can affect the overall value of the deal.

3. Why is the owner selling?
The answer can sometimes give you leverage in negotiations.

4. How long has the property been on the market?
A property that's been on the market for a long time might have hidden issues.

5. What are the average utility costs?
This helps you understand the ongoing costs of living in the property.

6. What's the seller's timeline?
If the seller is in a hurry, you might be able to negotiate a lower price.

7. How much are property taxes?
This is another factor in the ongoing cost of the property.

8. Are there any homeowner's or condo fees?
Home ownership fees can significantly increase the cost of owning a home.

9. What's the parking situation?
If you own a car, parking can be a major consideration.

10. What are the neighbors like?
Good neighbors can make living in a home much more enjoyable.

Each of these questions is important in its own right, and the answers can greatly influence your decision. However, they're not number one because they don't have as much of a direct impact on the value and future costs of the property as knowing about recent updates does.

While it's important to ask a variety of questions when considering a property, always remember to ask about recent updates. It's a simple question that can provide a wealth of information and potentially save you a lot of money in the long run.

Contact me to be your local real estate sales person and help you find the right home, at the right place, in the right location.