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Buyer guide

Questions to ask before buying a house

The right questions surface the things the listing leaves out — and hand you negotiation leverage.

Updated June 12, 2026 · 4 min read

About the price and history

  • How long has it been on the market, and have there been price cuts?
  • What did the seller pay, and when?
  • What comparable homes nearby have recently sold for?
  • Have any offers fallen through — and why?

About condition and work done

  • What major systems have been replaced, and when (roof, HVAC, water heater)?
  • Was renovation work permitted? Can they show the permits?
  • Are there any open or expired permits on file?
  • Are there known issues — foundation, water intrusion, pests?

About the seller's motivation

  • Why are they selling?
  • What's driving their timeline?
  • Would they accept a faster close in exchange for price?

About the true cost and risk

  • What are the actual property taxes and any HOA dues?
  • Is the home in a FEMA flood zone, and what does insurance run?
  • Have there been any special assessments or are any planned?

Let the report write your question list

Every HomeInteli report ends with a tailored set of questions to bring to the viewing or your agent — generated from what the analysis actually found on that specific home. Paste a listing link to get yours.

Check any listing in about a minute

Paste a Zillow, Redfin, or Realtor.com link. We locate the property and check its FEMA flood zone free — the full report unlocks the rest.

AI-generated · informational only · not advice — verify and decide for yourself.

Frequently asked

Who should I ask — the listing agent or my own?

Remember the listing agent represents the seller. Ask them factual questions, but lean on your own buyer's agent (or your own research) for candid interpretation. A tool that does independent due diligence helps you avoid relying solely on the seller's side.

What's the most important question?

“Why are you selling, and what's driving your timeline?” Motivation and urgency are the biggest levers in any negotiation — a seller who needs to move fast is often open to a lower, cleaner offer.

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