It's always important to ask some crucial questions from the seller of your new home. No home is 100% perfect, and you want to make sure that you are aware of whatever issues the house may have. While some sellers may volunteer that information, it is not incorrect to assume that most will not, hence the need to ask these questions.
- How old are the roof and other structures in the house? Older portions of the structure such as the roof may be very expensive to replace. On the average, an asphalt roof may last as long as 15 to 20 years before needing repairs or replacement, so factor in the age of the roof before you decide to make your offer to the buyer. Find out about the material used to make the roof too, as some are more expensive than others when it comes to replacement. You should also ask for documentation about repair work done on any part of the house, so you have it for future references.
- Have there been any water-related issues? Issues like burst pipes, flooding or water poisoning are sometimes reoccurring incidences. So you need to know ahead of time. Some neighborhoods are more prone to flooding during flood season and knowing these details might be crucial to your convenient stay. Knowledge of previous occurrences will help you keep an eye out for repeat situations so you can address them early enough.
- What kind of sewage system does the house have? Does the house have a septic tank or is it connected to the local sewage system? You need to be aware of that. A home with its own septic tank needs to be pumped out on average every 4 to 5 years unless property care for with an enzyme treatment, so knowing the care history or the last time of its service will give you an idea of when you might need to pump it again after you move in.
- What is the neighborhood like? You may assume you are just buying a property, but you are buying more than that. You are investing in the value of the neighborhood too. So you should ask questions about the type of community it is. Do drugs and gangs overrun it? Is the public system good enough for your kids? Is it too close to the freeway? Being aware of some this information may also affect your decision to buy or not. If you want to learn more about that neighborhood, view reviews of it online and talk to a knowledgeable real estate agent.
About the Author
Bill and Aby Brooks, REALTORS®
Aby’s understanding of excellent customer service stems from her extensive professional background. Prior to earning her real estate license in 2005, along with her college degree that focuses on business and engineering, Aby was the head of purchasing, inventory and quality assurance for an OEM medical and aerospace manufacturing company. Known by her clients and fellow realtors for her tenacity, honesty, integrity, and attention to detail, as a full-time realtor, she is also appreciated for her quick response to her client’s needs. Aby has been an avid horse rider and owner since the age of eight, with her husband Billas a local firefighter/EMT they are very active within the community. Bill served as a US Army Airborne Ranger in 75th Ranger Regiment, he is a combat-wounded veteran who was awarded a Purple Heart. Bill's background as facility Manager for an International metals company and as a firefighter/EMT gives him the experience, attention to detail and the desire to go above and beyond to serve his customers. The Brooks' serve on the board of a local non-profit (501c3) that gives back to the veterans, first responders and their families. The Brooks family resides on their small ranch in Manatee County. Aby& Bill excel in all types of real estate and their passion is helping people. “We genuinely like people, growing up in Sarasota and Manatee counties and now raising our own family here, it is an absolute pleasure to share our growing area with newcomers and reminisce with longtime residents. Our area has so much to offer and it is our business to help folks buy and sell their own piece of paradise.”
