Attending an open house can be exciting, especially if you think you’ve found the one. But before you rush to submit an offer, it’s important to ask the right questions—ones that give you insight into the seller’s position, the market competition, and the property itself.
If you’re wondering what to ask, today’s your lucky day. Here are three essential questions every buyer should bring to an open house:
1. What’s the seller’s motivation for selling?
Understanding the seller’s “why” can give you a strategic edge. Are they relocating quickly for work? Downsizing? Have they already purchased another property? Knowing their level of urgency can help you structure an offer that aligns with their needs—whether that means a faster closing timeline or flexibility on price.
2. Have there been any offers yet?
This question helps you understand the competition. If there are already multiple offers, you may need to come in strong with your best terms. If there’s no activity yet, it may open up room to negotiate. Either way, this info is key when deciding how aggressive your offer should be.
3. What else should I know about the home?
This open-ended question invites the agent to share additional details that may not be in the listing. Whether it’s about recent repairs, quirks in the home, or upcoming neighborhood developments, this is your opportunity to gather valuable insight. Agents may unintentionally reveal helpful information just by expanding on your question.
Why These Questions Matter
These three questions work together to give you a full picture of the seller, the competition, and the property. That knowledge empowers you to write a smarter, more appealing offer. And in a competitive market, that can make all the difference.
Have questions or need help starting your home search?
Give us a call at Lucas Howard Group or drop a comment we’d love to help you find your perfect home with confidence.
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