“5 Questions to Ask Before Submitting an Offer”

You’ve found the home you love — now comes the big step: making an offer. But before you rush to sign, it’s important to pause and make sure you’ve done your due diligence. The right questions can save you money, stress, and even prevent buyer’s remorse.

Here are five key questions every buyer should ask before submitting an offer on a home.

1. How long has the home been on the market?

This simple question reveals a lot about the seller’s motivation.

• If the home has only been listed for a few days, you’ll likely face competition and need a strong, timely offer.

• If it’s been sitting for weeks or months, the seller may be more flexible on price or willing to cover closing costs.

Your realtor can check market data to help you understand whether the home is priced competitively or ripe for negotiation.

2. Are there any current or past issues with the home?

Ask directly about known problems or recent repairs — foundation cracks, roof leaks, flooding, or electrical issues.Even if sellers are required to disclose major defects, some details might not make it into the official disclosure form.

A follow-up home inspection is essential, but getting the seller’s input first gives you context before committing to an offer.

3. What are comparable homes in the area selling for?

“Comps” — or comparable sales — help you determine a fair offer price. If nearby homes with similar features recently sold for less, you may have room to negotiate.

Your agent can provide a comparative market analysis (CMA) showing recent sales, price trends, and days on market so you can craft a smart, data-backed offer.

4. What’s included (and excluded) in the sale?

Don’t assume everything you see during the tour comes with the home. Ask whether appliances, lighting fixtures, window treatments, or outdoor items are included.

Clarifying this upfront prevents confusion later — especially if something you loved during the showing disappears before closing.

5. What’s the seller’s timeline or motivation?

Understanding why the seller is moving — and how fast they need to close — can give you leverage.

• If they’re relocating quickly, they may accept a slightly lower offer for a faster closing.

• If they’re waiting for a new home to be built, they might prefer a flexible timeline.

Aligning your offer with the seller’s needs can make you stand out — even if your price isn’t the highest.

💡 Final Thought

Before you make an offer, information is your best advantage. Asking these five questions helps you make a confident, informed decision — not an emotional one.

Your realtor is your biggest resource here: they’ll guide you through pricing strategy, contingencies, and negotiations so you submit an offer that sellers take seriously.

If you’re ready to start your home search, connect with a local real estate professional who can help you make your strongest offer — and win your dream home.