9 Questions to Ask Before Buying a House
Buying a home is one of the biggest and, arguably, most exciting investments you’ll make in your lifetime. There are considerations that modern buyers need to think about. (For one, Texas is experiencing a housing shortage that’s driving up home prices in some areas.)
However, a little research and preparation before house hunting goes a long way. No matter if you’re a first-time homebuyer or looking to downsize ahead of retirement, these are questions to ask before buying a home.
What’s My Budget?
It might seem basic, but having a firm understanding of your finances will help determine what you can afford and where. When calculating your ideal mortgage, don’t forget property taxes and property insurance. (This is a great time to consider these property insurance questions.)
Is the Neighborhood Right for Me and My Family?
We’ve heard it before: Location, location, location! But where your home is has an impact on everything from property taxes and school zones to commute time and distance to essentials such as grocery stores and pharmacies.
Another consideration is local infrastructure. If you have a remote or hybrid job, you’ll want to ensure you have quality, reliable internet providers in the area.
How Long Has the House Been on the Market?
Most listings will have this information, but you can also ask your real estate agent. A long listing time frame can be a red flag for some buyers, but it’s worth looking into if you’re drawn to the home. Sometimes, it can work to your advantage, as the seller may be more motivated to negotiate.
Have There Been Any Major Repairs to the House — and Is There a Warranty?
Taking inventory of repairs or renovations can give you a deeper look at what’s new, what’s old, and what might need attention in the near future. Always ask if there are warranties on the work that’s been done. A warranty in hand can save you money.
Are There Working Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors?
This isn’t a make-or-break situation, but it’s good to know before you start the buying process. Plus, it’s an important safety measure you might completely forget about in the whirlwind of moving. Even if the home has smoke detectors, you may want to switch out the batteries.
Is there a Homeowners Association?
HOAs have pros and cons, but potential buyers need to know how much the HOA fees will be and the organization’s bylaws. Depending on the area, HOA fees can significantly impact how much you pay each month.
How Old Is the Roof?
The roof’s health is a critical consideration when buying a house because it can impact your property insurance. A damaged roof can lead to potential interior damage, such as mold, which can lead to costly repairs. This is another reason why roof maintenance is important. If the roof is 20–25 years old, you may want to negotiate a new price or a contingency requiring the seller to fix, or replace, the roof before it’s sold.
Is the House in an Area Prone to Natural Disasters?
Where you buy could impact the type and cost of insurance policies needed to protect your home. Texas is no stranger to extreme weather events. From hurricanes to tornadoes, it’s possible to get a little taste of everything in a calendar year. In fact, water and roof damage are two of the most common types of property claims in Texas. And, if you buy along the coast, your lender might require windstorm insurance.
What Is the Home’s Insurance Claims History?
Knowing a home’s claims history can help identify potential problems and liability risks while providing insight into how much you may pay for property insurance. Ask the current homeowner for a Comprehensive Loss Underwriting Exchange, or CLUE, report. This details insurance claims filed throughout the past seven years and includes:
- The date of loss
- Loss type
- Amount paid on the claim.
Typically, insurance companies look at past claims to determine homeowners insurance premiums, according to the Texas Department of Insurance.
Insurance is another essential consideration when buying a home in Texas. Understanding the ins and outs is easy with Texas Farm Bureau Insurance’s property insurance guide.
Coverage and discounts are subject to qualifications and policy terms and may vary by situation. © 2025 Texas Farm Bureau Insurance
