The 5 Most Common Questions Buyers Should Ask

Buying a home is a big investment, and the process is complicated. Knowing the right questions to ask your real estate agent can ease some of the stress and even prevent unforeseen costs in the long run. Here are five key questions home buyers ask to be more prepared for the process:

  1. How Much Do I Need for a Downpayment?

This depends on your loan type, but in general, buyers are expected to honor a downpayment that is equal to 3 percent or 5 percent of the purchase price. While this percentage can differ, our real estate agents at Charleston Empire Properties will guide you through this process to make everything easier to complete and understand.

  1. What’s Included in the Sale?

In most home purchasing contracts, it’s clear that anything built-in or permanently affixed to the home comes with the house. This may seem like common sense, but you’d be surprised how many sellers assume they can take just anything with them. Below is a list of what comes with the house in most typical contracts. Keep in mind that if these items (and others) aren’t included in a pre-written contract, Realtors can write them in.

  • Built-in bookshelves
  • Built-in window seats
  • Oven
  • Dishwasher
  • HVAC units
  • Ceiling fans
  • Blinds
  • Lighting

As well, below are items that are very common for a buyer to request to stay with the sale of the home that is not a fixture:

  • Washer
  • Dryer
  • Refrigerator
  • Curtains
  • TV Mounts
  • In home speaker system
  1. How Old is Everything?

When buying a house that may not be as new as others, there may be some concerns about the
condition of different items in the house. Before selling the house, your real estate agent ensures that
all items are in good working condition and that there aren’t any repairs that are needed. When buying
a house, make sure you enquire about the age of fixtures, the roof, and major systems. These things
have a lifespan, and should they be at the end of theirs at the time of sale, a new homeowner could face
thousands in unplanned repairs. When looking at the condition of the house, below are some major components of the house to look at that may be a little older:

  • Roof
  • HVAC
  • Plumbing
  • Electrical
  • Windows
  1. What is the Property’s History with Hazards or Potential Hazards?

Relating to how old a property may be, knowing the history of hazards or potential hazards is an important way to know how potential expenses you may incur. These hazards may be from natural elements or outdated upkeep. Learning more about the home’s past issues with mold, lead paint, and other hazards is essential. As well, make sure you and your real estate agent know whether or not flood insurance is required for the property you are interested in. Unresolved problems can hold up a loan, and recurring hazards are costly and potentially life-threatening.

  1. When Will We Get the Keys?

This is surely the most exciting question that any new homeowner can ask. In most cases, the keys are handed over at the closing, but it’s not unusual to get the keys after the lender funds the loan.

Buy Your Dream Home With Charleston Empire Properties

Charleston Empire Properties offers friendly local real estate agents that specialize in helping new and existing homeowners navigate the process of buying their dream home. Whether you’re looking to find off-market property, a luxury listing, or just expert advice, Charleston real estate agents can assist you in every way. Contact our team today to get started in your home buying journey!