If you’re looking for a new property, you’re likely looking with a mountainous list of questions already in your head. In order to not overwhelm the seller, you’ll want to consider first looking at a home inspection, remembering these common home inspection mistakes. Next, it may be helpful to have a list of questions that will help you clarify what you’ve seen on the home inspection and give you as much information as possible. Wharton Law is here to help, and would like to provide you with the most important questions to ask the seller before making any move.
Questions to Ask the Seller
The Neighborhood
The best person to ask about the neighborhood, is the person who’s been living in it. Surely, you can do some investigation, find out crime statistics, and ask around, but you’ll want to get the owners’ perspective as well. Also, if you get an opportunity to talk with neighbors, that is a great idea. On that note, you should ask the following questions:
- Why is the owner moving, selling the home?
- Has there been any criminal activity to speak of in the area in recent years?
- Is there anything or anyone you should keep an eye on?
- What are the safest and best times of day to be out and about in the area?
The Home’s History
While you have to be careful about what you ask here, as not to violate the rights to privacy of anyone having lived in the home, you can ask the owner certain questions about those who’ve lived there. Questions you can ask include:
- Has anyone living in this home been convicted as a sex offender?
- Has this home been raided or used in any drug related activity?
- What about violent crime? Has this home been used for, or anyone in it ever been implicated in a crime?
Advice Help Support And Tips Signpost Shows Information And Guidance - Questions you should shy away from are those that have to do with sexual orientation, religion, or mental/physical disabilities.
To the Foundation
Lastly, but certainly not least, if you have not seen an inspection of the home-or need further clarification, be sure to ask the owner questions about the structural integrity of the home and repairs that have been done on it. These types of questions will include:
- Has the home been inspected for pests, such as termites or carpenter ants? If so, what were the results and is the home under active treatment?
- When is the last time the roof was repaired, are there any major leaks or areas of concern?
- Has there been recent maintenance on the furnace, heating units, or air conditioning?
- What are the last major repairs the home has undergone? Has there been followup?
If you’ve concluded that you are pleased with the seller’s answers and that this is the home for you, remember the last important step in ensuring your investment is in tip top shape, by way of a title search. For a title search and title insurance in Atlanta, contact Wharton Law at (404) 965-2767.