Buying a home is a huge decision. I can’t even begin to describe how many questions you should be asking before purchasing a house. It’d be impossible to go through them all, and that’s exactly why you should be working with an agent that you trust. We’re at your side to remember to ask if the home has ever had an infestation problem and to remind you to try all the taps. But if you do go looking at prospective home by yourself. Here are some questions you really should remember to ask.

Three Questions you Should ask BEFORE you Buy the House - Patrick Murray - Real Estate Agent Calgary

Are There any Foreclosures in the Area?

Foreclosed homes sell for less than other houses. If there are any foreclosures in the vicinity, those low prices are going to have a very real effect on how much sellers can demand. The competitive prices are great for you because you’ll likely be able to offer less than you’d otherwise have to.

Related Bonus Questions: Any paranormal or criminal activity? Homes with suicides, murders, meth labs, or ghost stories sell for less.

Is this Home in a Floodplain?

The Great Flood has probably taught more than a few Calgarians that living in a floodplain is not the wisest decision. While we won’t be due for another flood of that intensity for 100 years, smaller floods happen every year. And with climate change altering weather patterns, who knows when another massive flood will strike.

Living within walking distance of Fish Creek and other waterscapes may offer splendid views and a place to cool down during the summer, but make sure your home is located far enough away. Fortunately, you should be able to look up which neighbourhoods were evacuated during the last major flood. As long as you steer clear of those, you should be fine.

Related Bonus Questions: Has a pipe ever burst? Has the house experienced flooding or other water damage? If the answer to either of these questions is yes, you may want a mould inspection before you buy.

How Flexible is the Seller?

If you like the house, then insulting the seller with a low ball can be a really bad move. Instead, take an opportunity to talk with them or their agent. Asking how flexible they are about the price will give you an opportunity to test the waters without hurting anyone’s pride. If you’re just hunting for deal, then try not to get attached to a particular house and be prepared to make several offers before someone accepts.

Related Bonus Questions: Why is the current owner selling? If they’re being sent off to Europe or Asia for work, they likely don’t have unlimited time to sell their home.

Homes have histories. The more information you have to work with the better, and that means knowing which questions to ask. If you want a real estate agent on your team who knows all the right questions, then you need to work with me. Call me today.