Touring a new home is an exciting step, but it’s also your opportunity to determine whether that house is truly right for you. While a home might look perfect on the surface, a deeper inspection could reveal potential issues or hidden advantages.

The good news is that by asking the right questions during the tour, you can uncover everything you need to know before making an offer. This will help you make an informed decision and give you peace of mind about your choice.

Here are the essential questions to ask when touring a new home:

1. How Long Has the House Been on the Market?

Understanding how long a home has been on the market is important. If it’s been listed for a while, there might be a reason—perhaps the price is too high, or there are issues with the property that you’ll want to investigate. Conversely, if it’s a new listing, you might have more flexibility with your offer.

2. What Are the Utility Costs?

Even if you secure a good mortgage rate, high utility costs can significantly impact your monthly expenses. Ask about the average costs for electricity, water, and gas. The seller should provide recent bills or estimates to help you gauge what to expect. High utility costs can be a dealbreaker if you’re on a tight budget.

3. What’s Included in the Sale?

Clarify what comes with the home. Will the appliances stay? Are the fixtures included? Sometimes, sellers take valuable items with them, which could leave you needing to replace them at your own expense.

4. What’s the Condition of the Roof and Foundation?

The roof and foundation are two of the most crucial aspects of a home, as they protect everything inside and can be costly to repair or replace. While it’s important to visually inspect for any cracks or damage during your visit, it’s also wise to ask about the current condition and any known issues.

5. Are There Any Recent Renovations or Repairs?

While buying a recently upgraded home can be appealing, it’s important to ensure that renovations were done correctly. Poorly executed work could leave you footing the bill for repairs. Ask about any recent renovations or major repairs, and don’t hesitate to request details.

Pro Tip: Some renovations, like adding a room or updating electrical wiring, require permits from the city. To ensure your dream home is safe, ask the seller if they have the necessary permits for any major renovations.

6. What’s the Property’s History?

Inquire about the property’s history, including past ownership, major repairs, or significant events. A home with a complicated history might come with hidden problems, and knowing about them in advance could save you from committing to a bad deal.

7. Are There Any Pending Assessments or Liens?

Pending assessments or liens on the property could lead to unexpected costs or legal issues down the road. To avoid future problems, verify with the seller or review the seller’s disclosure.

8. Are There Any Neighborhood Developments Planned?

When moving into a new home, you’ll want to establish a routine to help you settle in. However, neighborhood developments like road construction or new stores could disrupt your peace. Ask about any future developments or construction in the area to determine if they might be a dealbreaker for you.