Your realtor is the most important person you’ll find when it comes to shopping for a new house. A realtor should be able to tell you just about anything you want to know about a home. In order to tap into this reservoir of knowledge, however, you need to know the right questions to ask. In case you’re looking to buy a new house, here are some questions you need to ask your realtor before you proceed.

Tips Before Buying a New Home

1. 

   When Was the House Last Remodeled? Remodeling can have a big impact on a home. Especially if recent remodels were done with high-quality materials like quartz and one of many trending quartz countertop colors, this is something you’ll want to know about a home. Ask your realtor when the last remodeling projects were done on the home and what materials were used in the process. You might unearth the presence of a valuable material like quartz, or non-durable and cheap materials. Either will have an impact on your interest in the home.

2. 

   What’s the Condition of the Roof and Siding? The roof and siding of a home are two areas that can require a lot of semi-regular maintenance if the materials or construction is low-quality. Ask your realtor if any repairs have been done on the roof, how old the shingles are, and what they’re made of. You either want new asphalt shingles, metal shake shingles, or semi-new synthetic shingles. For the siding, vinyl tends to be the lowest quality while rustic siding options can be made from some of the best house siding materials such as stainless steel or premium hardwood.

3. 

   What’s the Foundation Like? There are 3 main types of foundations, wood, concrete, and steel. Most foundations are laid with concrete but have wood or steel framing in the walls. Some, like ICF foundations, are made completely from hollow concrete forms and are much more airtight and durable. They also possess structural insulated panels for added insulation. Wood and steel frame houses tend to have an average level of energy efficiency and durability, while ICF frame houses are far and away more durable, airtight, and energy-efficient.

4. 

   How’s the Neighborhood? Is the neighborhood safe? Are there entertainment options for family and kids? How’s the shopping? These are all things you’ll want to know about a neighborhood before you move there. Sometimes you might find a good deal on a great home but one that’s located in a bad or deserted neighborhood. It might be worth it to you, but it’s best to know before you move in.

Know Your Stuff Before You Commit to Purchasing a New House

By asking your realtor all of the questions we listed here for you, you’ll be able to obtain a much more comprehensive assessment of whatever house you’re looking at.

By learning about the foundation, the roof and siding, remodeling, and the neighborhood, you can squeeze out every last piece of vital information from your realtor and be that much more equipped to make the right decision on your next home. We here at Community Mortgage work with great local realtors in the San Diego area and are more than happy to make introductions to them. Contact us today at (619) 692-3630 for more info.

Skylar Ross is a contributor to the Innovative Materials blog. He is a content writer for the construction and home improvement industries with an interest in landscaping, outdoor remodeling, and interior design. Skylar is focused on educating homeowners, contractors, and architects on innovative materials and methods of construction that increase property value, improve sustainability, and create a warm and welcoming ambiance.