Smart questions to ask a home seller include ones that give you information not only about the home, but about the neighborhood as well.
Home Systems
Ask the homeowner the age of major systems like HVAC, the roof, the water heater, and any appliances they are including.
What has changed?
Ask what renovations they’ve made and about the difficulty level of those renovations. Was their home easy for crews to work on? What is the most challenging aspect of this home? So you have the receipts and permits for any major renovations?
History of the property
Has this property flooded? Had hail damage? Termites? Find out if neighbors on either side are easy or hard to work with when it comes to fences and trees. Are there any known issues with the home, like a certain pipe that always freezes in winter, or a sliding back door that sticks.
What are utilities like here?
Sometimes homeowners can provide you with current receipts for gas, electric, water, and other utilities. This will make it easier for you to build your monthly budget.
The neighborhood news
Do people look out for each other or keep to themselves? Find out if there are any planned improvements like sidewalks or landscaping.