Questions to Ask When Buying a House

Buying a home is a major decision. Beyond the excitement of selecting a style or neighbourhood, you’ll want to make sure you ask the right questions to ensure your purchase is solid, suitable, and sustainable. Here's a guide to the key questions you should ask—and be ready to answer—when buying a house.

1. What is My Budget and How Much Can I Afford?

Before you fall in love with any home, you need clarity on how much you can comfortably spend. Ask yourself (and your lender) questions like:

• What down payment do I have available, and how much will I need?

• What will my monthly mortgage payments be, considering interest rate, amortization, taxes and insurance?

• How much are the closing costs, inspections, and other one-time fees?

• Do I have an emergency reserve for unexpected repairs or maintenance?

Having your budget defined gives you confidence in your home search and helps you avoid stretching too far financially.

2. Am I Financially and Personally Ready to Buy?

Buying a home isn’t just about affordability—it’s about readiness. Ask:

• Is my income stable? What if rates rise or my job situation changes?

• Have I factored in debts, monthly expenses, and lifestyle changes?

• Am I planning to live in this home long enough to make it worthwhile?

• Have I researched buyer programs, incentives or tax credits I may qualify for?

If you can say “yes” to these, you’re in a strong position to move ahead.

3. Why Is the Property Being Sold and How Long Has It Been on the Market?

When you visit a home, ask the listing agent or seller:

• Why is the seller moving?

• How long has the property been listed?

• Have there been any price reductions or previous offers?

Answers here can give you insight into the seller’s urgency and any underlying issues with the property itself or the local market conditions.

4. What Is the Condition of the Home’s Major Systems and Structure?

A home may look great, but it’s essential to ask:

• When were the roof, windows, heating/cooling systems last replaced or serviced?

• Are there any known issues with foundation, insulation, plumbing or electrical systems?

• Can I review any inspection reports or maintenance history?

These questions help you estimate future repair costs and address potential deal breakers early.

5. What Are the Ongoing Costs of Ownership?

Owning a home means more than just your mortgage payment. Ask about:

• Property taxes: what are the current amounts and how much have they increased?

• Utilities and running costs: what average monthly bill does the current owner pay?

• Homeowner association or strata fees, if applicable: what do they include?

• Maintenance history: what major work has been done, and what might be coming up?

Understanding these costs helps you see the full financial picture.

6. What is the Neighbourhood Like and What’s the Local Market?

The home itself is important—but location and context matter just as much. So ask:

• How are nearby schools, transit, shopping, amenities and infrastructure?

• Are there planned developments or zoning changes in the immediate area?

• What is the neighbourhood’s average days-on-market, and how do comparable sales compare?

• Are noise, traffic, or other nuisances likely to affect life or resale value?

Knowing this helps you anticipate lifestyle fit and long-term value.

7. What’s Included in the Sale and What Are the Terms?

When you’re ready to make an offer, be sure to ask:

• Which fixtures, appliances, and features are included?

• What is the proposed closing date and possession timing?

• Are there any conditions or contingencies that the seller expects?

• What responsibilities fall to me (repairs, legal, inspections) before closing?

Clear terms reduce misunderstandings and help you prepare accordingly.

Final Thoughts

Buying a home is as much about asking the right questions as it is about finding the right property. With these seven questions—and the conversations they spark—you’ll gain deeper insight into the affordability, condition, neighbourhood and terms of your potential purchase. That clarity empowers you to make a confident decision.

At Jag Sidhu Real Estate Group, I focus on making sure my clients ask the questions that matter—and get answers that count. If you're beginning your home search or reviewing an offer, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.