For first home buyers, there’s no better person to ask about prospective property purchases than your real estate agent. However, the process of finally taking the plunge on a house or apartment can feel a bit overwhelming, and you might not know what to ask about first. So, here’s a handy list of 10 queries to put to your agent when you think you’ve found your future home. It’s likely they’ll have most of the information to hand, but if not, it won’t take them long to get it.
Why Are They Selling at This Time?
Some people might not want to admit it if they are leaving a suburb which they feel has grown too busy. They may then give a vague excuse for moving. However, if an elderly couple says they want to relocate to a retirement village or a smaller space (for instance), there is clearly a valid reason for selling which shouldn’t affect your decision.
How Long Has the Property Been on the Market?
An appealing property that’s just hit the market could be an opportunity worth seizing. Conversely, one that’s been up for sale for an extended period raises questions about hidden faults or drawbacks which have made it unattractive to other home buyers.
What Do You Think They Will Take?
The advertised price of an apartment or a house and what the sellers will accept can be two different things. Your agent will have an idea of how much they are really seeking.
What is the Market Like in the Suburb?
Here’s one area where a real estate agent’s knowledge proves absolutely invaluable as they are able to fill you in on local market trends, with examples of similar recent sales.
What’s Your Opinion of the Apartment Block/Street/District?
A subjective to question, to be sure, yet one that gives the agent another opportunity to share with you their knowledge of the location – its plusses, minuses and potential.
Any Information on the Neighbours?
As with the query regarding the current owners, this can help paint you a picture of the neighbourhood in question. Is it predominantly young professionals or families or retirees? Are there a lot of students or weekenders or tourists in rental accommodation? And so on.
What About Planned Developments?
Your agent may include this sort of info when sharing their opinion of the location. If they don’t, though, it’s worth enquiring about projects that are “in the pipeline”. These may increase your interest in the property (new schools) or decrease it (planned road changes).
How Much Interest Has There Been in the Property?
Plenty of interest is a good sign and can let you know you need to act fast.
What is Included in the Sale?
This is something that many forget to ask – then regret later. Is that dishwasher staying in the kitchen? Will the metal garden shed be left in the backyard? What about the large potted plants on the front verandah? It’s not always clear what extras are included with a property, so find out.
Got a Question We Didn’t Answer in This Blog?
The team at Abode Real Estate in Cottesloe will be only too happy to guide you through the exciting but somewhat daunting process of becoming a first home buyer. With years of experience dealing with properties of every type, we can provide the best possible advice and, of course, help you locate your perfect future home. You can contact us at or by calling (08) 9381 9111.