Answers by Necole Snider

🏡 Smart Questions to Ask Your Realtor About a Home 1. Why is the seller moving? This can reveal a lot: job relocation downsizing problem with the house or neighborhood It can also hint at how motivated the seller is to negotiate. 2. How long has the home been on the market? Follow up with: Have there been any price reductions? Have there been previous offers? If a home has sat longer than average, you may have negotiating power. 3. What comparable homes sold for recently? Realtors will pull comparables (“comps”) from the National Association of Realtors Multiple Listing Service (MLS). Ask: Are we looking at a fair price? Are homes selling above or below asking price? 4. Are there any known issues with the house? Important things to ask about: roof age HVAC age plumbing electrical foundation past water damage A good realtor should already be watching for red flags. 5. What major repairs or updates have been done? Ask for: year of the roof HVAC replacement appliances renovations with permits This helps you estimate future maintenance costs. 6. What are the total monthly costs? Beyond the mortgage, ask about: property taxes homeowners insurance HOA fees flood insurance if applicable In coastal areas like Mobile, flood insurance can sometimes matter depending on the zone. 7. What does the inspection usually reveal for homes like this? Every region has common issues. For example in the Gulf South: moisture issues termites roof damage from storms aging HVAC systems Ask what inspectors usually find in similar homes. 8. Are there any HOA rules or restrictions? If there is an HOA, ask: monthly fees rental restrictions renovation restrictions parking rules Some HOAs can be very strict. 9. How competitive will an offer need to be? Ask your realtor: Are homes getting multiple offers? Are buyers waiving contingencies? What’s a realistic offer strategy? This tells you how aggressive you may need to be. 10. Are there any potential resale concerns? Even if you plan to stay a long time, ask: Is the location desirable? Any nearby developments planned? Is the home harder to sell later? A good realtor should always think about resale value. 🔍 Questions That Reveal Hidden Problems These are questions many buyers forget to ask: Is this house in a flood zone? Has the property ever had an insurance claim? Are there any easements on the property? Was the house ever under contract before and why did it fall through? What are the average utility costs? 🧠 One Power Question This is one of the best questions you can ask any realtor: “If you were buying this house, what would concern you?” A good realtor will often tell you things they might not otherwise mention. ✅ Tip: The best agents will also point out flaws themselves. If an agent only talks about how great every house is, that’s a red flag.