An open house can tell you a lot about the home, but only if you know what to look for. To get a better picture, it’s important to ask questions beyond what you can see on the surface.
While the home may seem ready to move in, asking thoughtful questions can help clarify the property’s condition, maintenance history, and potential future costs. It’s also an opportunity to make sure your home truly fits your lifestyle and financial goals before moving forward.
So, whether you are interested in purchasing property in Providence, Phoenix, Arizona is a breakdown of the general questions you ask at open houses in Arizona below.
10 questions to ask at an open house
1. Why are homeowners selling it?
This helps to measure how motivated the seller is. Sellers facing a transfer of financial pressure may be more pleased with negotiations. If the agents are ambiguous or have no clear answers, it may mean that they do not have all the details yet, or it could indicate a problem with the house.
2. How many properties are on the market?
A house that has been sitting in the market for a long time can show issues of price, condition, or location. It can also strengthen the negotiation position.
3. Was there a price reduction?
If prices drop, it could indicate a low demand or hidden problem of homes that thwarted previous buyers. Multiple price drops without a clear explanation could mean that previous buyers have retreated.
4. Are there any current offers at the table?
Knowing whether there is competition will help you decide how you will act and whether you will make a strong offer. If an agent states that “there are many offers” but they cannot share details, it may simply be a strategy that promotes strong interest.
5. How old are the main systems (roof, HVAC, plumbing, electricity)?
It is important to know your age as major systems such as roofs, HVAC, plumbing, and electricity can be expensive to replace. If they are nearing the end of their lifespan and not updated, in the near future you may be facing considerable repairs or replacement costs for electrical appliances.
6. What is the average utility cost?
Understanding monthly costs makes it clear what costs will be to live there. Very high utility bills can point to poor insulation, outdated systems, or other hidden inefficiencies.
7. Have you had any recent repairs or renovations on your home?
Learning what has been updated and what is missing can reveal the condition of the home and whether repairs have been done properly.
8. Are there any known or past issues (basics, molds, pests)?
This question will help to uncover potential trade breakers that may not be visible immediately. It also gives the seller or agent the opportunity to disclose what may appear during a home inspection, helping to avoid surprises later.
9. What is included in the sale?
Make it clear whether appliances, lighting or window treatments will stay at home. This information can affect your budget and decisions, so it is important to know exactly what comes with your property.
10. How about the neighborhood?
Agents can provide insight into noise, traffic, schools and amenities that may not appear in online surveys.
Questions to ask based on the room
Sometimes it arises from the observation of the best questions as you walk through each room. There are several target questions to ask depending on the space.
kitchen
Are appliances included in the sale? Do large-scale appliances offer household warranty? Are the cabinets and countertops original?
Bathroom
Are there any recent plumbing work? When was the equipment last updated? How about water pressure?
Living space
Are you concerned about drafts and insulation? Have you ever had your floors repaired or replaced before? What about the noise level at night? Is Windows single pane or double pane?
underground
Did you have a moisture problem in the basement? Are sump pumps and drainage systems installed, have the basement finished, or are they incomplete?
Before you go: How to prepare for an open house
Investigate listings and neighborhoods: Find out more about your home and find out what your area is by looking at nearby amenities, schools and recent sales. Visit your home at another time of the day. Driving in the morning and evening reveals traffic patterns, noise levels, street activities, and more. Create a list of essential items and deal breakers: Keep focused during the tour as you know what features you don’t have and what will become a deal breaker. Take notes during your visit: Use your mobile phone or small notebook to write down your thoughts, give your favorite features and answer questions. Ask before taking a photo: The photos will help you remember the details later, but always check with your agent before snapping.
Questions to ask at the open house
Asking questions at the open house not only gathers information, but also shows the seller’s agent that you are a serious and thoughtful buyer. By focusing on the history, condition of your home and what’s included in the sale, you can better understand whether your home really suits your needs. Additionally, adjusting the questions for each room reveals important details that will help you make smarter offers and avoid unexpected costs later.
