9 questions to ask at an Open For Inspection

Attending open homes can be a lost opportunity if you're not focused on giving each property a thorough inspection and being open to the possibility that you could live there.

You're wasting your time if you stroll in and out without asking the agent a question to ascertain the potential value of the property and the owner's motivation for selling.

When you invest multiple weekends looking at homes, you should make every moment count.

It's often a good idea to draw up a list of “must-haves” and “nice-to-haves” and use that list as a reference against which every property is judged. 

This approach will help you cull the properties you're not interested in before you even get in the car. And, of course, it will help you select the types of houses or units worth making the journey to view.

Most importantly, you can walk through the home and tick off the essential features you're looking for in your next home.

Chatting with the agent hosting the Open House is also a good idea. The good ones will remember you and respond positively to any future interaction.

Below, we've listed 9 questions you should ask the agent to help you make the most of every Open House you attend. 

How long has the property been on the market? 

Time-on-market (a favourite real estate phrase) is a critical factor. If it's been sitting on the market for months, it's over-priced or something else is going on. You should dig deeper. 

Why is the owner selling? 

That's a legitimate question, but you'll have to ask it to find out whether the answer is revealing.

Have you had any offers?

Try to find out whether you're going into a competitive situation and will need to act decisively and quickly.

Will the seller negotiate?

Gauge the seller's motivation before considering a bid, especially if the property is set to auction. You might get a careful response from the agent, but you'll have opened up the conversation without showing your hand. 

Can I see a builder's inspection report?

A good agent and motivated seller will have an independent report available. This doesn't mean you shouldn't commission your own down the track. However, their document offers a starting point.

Are there any issues with the property?

This is an essential question if there's no builder's report. You have every right to be told about significant problems, such as those affecting the foundations, rising damp or a leaking roof.

Are there any recent renovations? 

Over the years, every home has usually been the subject of a few improvements. The ones that add value are recent, such as a new kitchen, bathroom or entertaining area.

Do you have similar properties in the area?

This is an opportunity to ask an agent what else their agency has on its books. They'll often reference properties about to come on the market, so their response could be invaluable.

What are the Body Corporate fees and policies?

If you're considering an apartment, the strata fees and policies will be critical in your decision-making. For example, a Body Corporate might not allow pets, so be clear on the rules to avoid nasty surprises.