Open inspections: What types of questions should you ask when looking for property?

Deciding to purchase Surfers Paradise property is just the beginning – there are a number of things to take care of before committing to a home purchase. One of the most important things to undertake before making a decision is to attend the open inspections and see the property’s interior. This is essential for a number of reasons.

For one, you get to see the inside of the real estate and get a feel for the overall atmosphere of the home. This can radically change your train of thought, especially if you just can’t get on board with the interior decoration, the layout of the rooms or size. However, attending open inspections also gives you the opportunity to speak with the real estate agent – and potentially the vendors themselves – about the property.

Interacting with these people gives you the chance to ask any questions about the section, the local neighbourhood, the house itself and anything else that pops into your mind – effectively allowing you to inform yourself about anything about the home that tickles your curiosity. Here are some questions you should consider asking, in order to help fill out your knowledge about the home and community and ensure you make the right decision.

What made you decide to move from this Surfers Paradise property?

This is an important question to consider for a number of reasons. Without prying or coming across as rude, figuring out why they’re leaving the area can help fill in your own regional context – especially if you’re not originally or currently living in the area.

For some people, it will be something personal like downsizing their home or moving back to their birthplace to be with family. However, others may respond that the commute was getting to be too much every day or their children couldn’t get into the school they wanted due to zoning restrictions.

While these reasons aren’t deal breakers, they could be worth making note of. But if the reason is something more confrontational – such as noisy neighbours or an increasing crime rate in the area – this could be a red flag.

What are the local amenities like?

Ask the vendors about their own personal take on the range of amenities around the area and their own experiences with accessing them. Things like supermarkets, local schools, public transport and outdoor recreation areas are just some factors people often look for in close proximity to their homes.

Speaking with the current owners about what is on offer – as well as their personal favourite things to do in the local community – can help you gain incredibly valuable insight into the area.

How long has the property been on the market?

This is more of a question for the real estate agent. Getting the down low on how long the property has been on the market gives you multiple morsels of information. For one, if it’s been a longer period of time, you could be able to deduce that the property isn’t very popular with buyers. There could be a reason for this to investigate, or it could just offer you the opportunity to drive down the asking price – putting you out in front and financially better off.

If it’s been a short period of time, asking about the other prospective buyers can help you gauge whether it’s going to be a competitive battle early on and give you a chance to decide whether the property is worth it in the long run – or whether you just begin looking elsewhere.