Looking to buy a home this spring? Attending an open house is a great way to get a feel for a property. Our real estate agents want you to make the most of these pre-purchase visits by asking the right questions.

• Ask for a listing sheet to see what comes with the house.
  If you are attracted to unique features at a house, ask if they will remain on the property. The same holds for appliances.  
  
  
• What kind of renovations have been done?
  Look at the property disclosure and see what the age of the roof is, what type of insulation is in place. Sometimes a seller will have a list of when they've done certain projects and the agent can share that with you.
    
• What is listed in the disclosure statement?
  Sellers offering Jackson homes for sale must complete a real estate disclosure statement to the buyer. This critical document reveals everything the seller knows about a property. It includes roofing, electrical and water systems information, and structural and foundation information.
  
  
• Is there a Homeowners Association (HOA), covenants, and restrictions in the deed, and if so, can you have a copy of these?
  The purpose of an HOA is to maintain the value of the property and protect the residents' quality of life. But often, the rules are difficult to follow. If the seller doesn't have a copy, ask where you can get one. Besides regulations about what you can't do, such as park on the street, there may be things you must do, such as paying dues to maintain playgrounds or other community facilities. 
  
  
• What else do you want to know?
  Before you attend any open house, sit down and determine what specific questions you have about the property.

When you're ready to start attending open houses as you search for your new home, contact us. Our real estate professionals look forward to helping you ask all the right questions before you buy!