Top Questions to Ask Before Making an Offer on a Home

Searching for a new home is one of the most thrilling steps you can take in life, but it’s also one that comes with major decisions and plenty of unknowns. When you finally find a property that seems to check every box, the pressure to move quickly can feel intense.

Even so, pausing to ask the right questions is crucial before you make an offer. Doing so gives you the confidence to proceed, helps avoid unexpected issues after closing, and ensures that the home you choose truly fits your lifestyle and long-term plans.

This guide will show you exactly what to ask about the property so you can move forward with clarity and peace of mind.

• Be sure you understand every detail available about the property’s condition and history before making an offer.
• Know your own needs, lifestyle, and future plans to make sure the home is a great fit.
• Ask strategic questions about costs, maintenance, and resale potential so you can make a smart, confident decision.

Before you think about writing an offer, take some time to gather information about the home itself. Many buyers get caught up in cosmetic features or a stunning view, but there’s a lot going on behind the scenes that you can’t see at first glance.

Start with questions about the physical structure and systems. How old is the roof? When were the heating and cooling systems last updated? Has the plumbing or electrical work been replaced or upgraded? The answers could tell you a lot about potential repairs or costs you’ll face after moving in.

You should also ask about any major renovations or additions. Were permits obtained and final inspections completed? If not, you might inherit expensive problems or even face legal challenges down the road. Inquire about the condition of the foundation, windows, insulation, and appliances. Even a gorgeous home can hide costly surprises.

Lastly, check for any history of water damage, pest issues, or environmental concerns, such as radon, mold, or lead paint — especially in older homes. Get copies of recent inspection reports if they’re available.

• How old are the roof, HVAC system, plumbing, and electrical systems?
• Have there been any major repairs, replacements, or renovations?
• Are there any warranties or recent inspections available?
• Has the property had issues with water intrusion, pests, or environmental hazards?
• What is included in the sale (appliances, fixtures, etc.)?
• Are there any ongoing maintenance issues or repairs you should know about?

The listed price is only part of the financial picture. Before you make an offer, get a clear understanding of all the costs associated with the home. This includes property taxes, homeowner association dues (if applicable), and insurance.

Find out about utility costs, maintenance expenses, and the estimated price of any immediate repairs. Ask your lender to explain your projected mortgage payment — including principal, interest, taxes, and insurance — so you know exactly what you’re signing up for.

• What are the annual property taxes and any association fees?
• How much do utilities typically cost?
• Are there repair or upgrade costs you should budget for right away?
• What will your total monthly payment be after all costs are considered?

Plan not to skip the inspection process, as even newer homes can have hidden problems that only a trained eye will catch. Find out which inspections have been completed (if any), and which you should schedule yourself after your offer is accepted (general, termite, radon, sewer line, etc.).

Request a copy of the seller’s disclosure statement, which should outline any known issues with the property. Read this document carefully, and ask for clarification on anything that isn’t clear.

It’s also helpful to ask about warranties or service contracts on major appliances and systems. If there’s an existing termite bond or roof warranty, find out if it can be transferred to you.

• Has a general inspection been performed recently? Can you review the report?
• What does the seller’s disclosure statement reveal about the property?
• If your offer is accepted, should you order additional inspections (sewer, pest, radon, etc.)?
• Are there any transferable warranties or service contracts on the property?

Knowing why the current owner is selling can help you craft a more strategic offer. For instance, if the seller needs to move quickly, they may be more willing to negotiate on price or terms. If they’ve owned the property for many years, there may be sentimental value or a desire to find the right buyer.

Is the home vacant or occupied? How long has it been on the market? Are there other offers on the table? This information can help you decide how quickly to act and how much flexibility you might have when negotiating.

• Why is the owner selling the property?
• How long has the home been on the market?
• Have there been any price reductions?
• Are there competing offers on the table?
• What terms or timelines are most important to the seller?

Asking yourself the right questions is just as important as asking about the property. Take a step back and think carefully about how this home fits your needs — not just today but for the years ahead.

Consider your must-haves and nice-to-haves. Does the home have enough space, the right layout, and the features that matter most to you? Think about the number of bedrooms and bathrooms you need, as well as kitchen size, storage, and a workspace if you work from home.

Picture your daily routine. Will the layout make your life easier, or could it create frustration? Is there enough space for hobbies, guests, or pets? Also, think about the long-term: Is this a place you can see yourself enjoying for many years, or does it feel more like a short-term solution?

• Does the home meet your needs for space, layout, and features?
• Is there room to grow or adapt if your circumstances change?
• Can you picture yourself living here comfortably in five years?
• Will this home support your hobbies, pets, or future plans?
• Are you excited about the idea of making this your home?

Sometimes, the right house comes along before you had expected it to. Make sure you’re clear on your timeline and flexibility before making an offer.

Think about how soon you want or need to move. Is your financing in place? Do you need to sell another property first? Understanding your own limits and timeline can help you avoid rushed decisions or costly mistakes.

It’s also important to think about your long-term plans. How long do you expect to stay in this home? Is it a stepping stone, or are you looking for a forever home? Your answers will help you determine if this is truly the right time and place to invest.

• Are you financially and logistically ready to buy now?
• Do you need to sell another property before moving?
• How soon do you need to move in?
• Will this home suit your needs if your circumstances change in the next few years?

Some buyers want a move-in-ready home, while others see potential in a fixer-upper. Consider whether you’re interested in making changes to the property. Are there improvements you want to tackle right away or over time? What would those projects cost, and how disruptive would they be?

This is your chance to imagine the possibilities while keeping a realistic eye on budget, time, and effort.

• Are you interested in making updates or improvements to the home?
• What projects would you need or want to tackle right away?
• Were previous renovations done to code with proper permits?
• How much time and money are you prepared to invest in customization?

Ask about the age and state of major systems (roof, HVAC, plumbing, electrical), any recent repairs or upgrades that have been completed, and request copies of inspection reports or seller disclosures. This helps you understand potential future costs.

Think about your daily routine, must-haves, and future plans. Make sure the layout, space, and location match your lifestyle and any changes you anticipate in the coming years.

Knowing why the seller is moving can help you tailor your offer and negotiate more effectively. A motivated seller might be more flexible on price or terms.

Finding the right home is more than checking boxes on a wish list. It’s about gathering all the facts, asking insightful questions, and making sure this investment lines up with your personal goals.

By taking the time to ask these important questions, you put yourself in the best possible position to make a smart offer and love where you live. Approach the process with curiosity and care, and you’ll find a home in Chesterfield, MO, that’s truly a great fit for your next chapter. Reach out to us at Dillon Gray LeFan to begin.

_{*Header photo courtesy by Dillon Gray LeFan}