Questions to Ask Before Buying a Home
Questions to Ask Before Buying a Home
A printable checklist of the questions worth asking yourself, your lender, and your agent before you buy. Bring it to your next conversation.
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Your goals & budget
- What is my realistic all-in budget, including closing costs and reserves?
- How long do I plan to stay — and does buying beat renting over that horizon?
- What are my must-haves vs. nice-to-haves?
- How much am I comfortable paying each month, including taxes, insurance, and any HOA dues?
Financing
- How much am I pre-approved for, and what loan type fits me best?
- What will my estimated monthly payment and cash-to-close actually be?
- Are there first-time buyer programs or assistance I qualify for?
- How will my rate lock and timeline work?
The home & location
- What is this neighborhood really like — commute, noise, light, schools, resale?
- How does the asking price compare to recent sales nearby?
- How old are the roof, systems, and major appliances?
- Are there any known issues in the disclosures or inspection reports?
- Is the property under rent control, in an HOA, or subject to special assessments?
The offer & process
- What contingencies should I include to protect myself?
- What is competitive in this market without overexposing me?
- What are the point-of-sale or local requirements for this property?
- What does the timeline from offer to keys look like?
- What are all the costs I will pay at closing?
Want the full walk-through? See our step-by-step home buying guide. This checklist is general guidance, not legal or financial advice.
Let’s go through it together
We’re happy to answer every one of these for your situation — no obligation.