Don't leave a home open without asking these questions

When you walk into a home open, it's easy to focus on the things you can see. 

Does the kitchen have enough storage? Will your furniture fit? Is the backyard big enough for the kids or dog? 

But some of the most important information about a property isn't visible during an inspection. 

Before you leave the home open, take the opportunity to ask a few key questions. The answers could help you avoid surprises and decide whether the property is right for you. 

Are there any material facts I should be aware of? 

A material fact is something that could reasonably be expected to influence your decision to buy the property or the price you are willing to pay. 

While agents have obligations regarding disclosure, asking this question gives you the opportunity to better understand anything that could affect your decision-making.

If you're unsure about something you've seen or heard about the property, don't be afraid to ask for clarification. 

Have there been any renovations or major repairs?

Understanding what work has been carried out can provide useful insight into the property's condition and history.

If renovations, extensions or significant repairs have been completed, ask what work was done and when. You may also want to ask whether any required approvals were obtained.

This information can help you understand what maintenance has already been addressed and whether there may be future work to consider.

What are the ongoing costs?

The purchase price is only one part of the cost of owning a property.

Ask about council rates, water rates and, if applicable, strata fees and reserve fund contributions.

Knowing these costs before you make an offer can help you determine whether the property fits within your budget.

What is included in the sale?

Not everything you see during a home open will necessarily stay with the property.

If there are appliances, light fittings, window treatments or outdoor features you'd like included, ask whether they form part of the sale.

Clarifying this early can help avoid misunderstandings later in the process.

What settlement terms are the sellers looking for?

Many buyers are curious about how much interest a property is attracting or whether any offers have already been made.

While there's nothing wrong with asking, it can often be more useful to understand the seller's preferred settlement timeframe and how offers will be presented.

This information can help you prepare if you decide to make an offer and ensure your proposed terms align with the seller's expectations.

What can you tell me about the local area?

You're not just buying a property, you're buying into a neighbourhood.

Ask about nearby amenities, public transport, schools, parking and any planned developments in the area.

These factors can have a significant impact on your lifestyle and may not be obvious during a short inspection.

To continue your search after the home open, tools like the interactive maps on reiwa.com can help you explore nearby schools, public transport links, parks, shopping centres and other local amenities.

Make the most of your visit

A home open is your opportunity to gather information and assess whether a property is right for you.

By arriving with a few questions prepared, you'll gain a better understanding of the property, the costs involved and the buying process, helping you make a more informed decision if you choose to take the next step.