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Buying a property is a significant investment, whether you’re looking for a new home, a vacation property, or a long-term real estate investment in Europe. The first contact with the seller or agent is your chance to gather valuable information and avoid costly surprises down the line.
Here’s a practical checklist of the most important questions to ask the seller during your initial inquiry.
General Questions About the Property
Start with the basics to understand what you’re dealing with:
- Is the property still available?
- What is the asking price, and is it negotiable?
- How long has it been on the market?
- What is the reason for selling?
- What is the current condition? Have there been recent renovations?
- What is the total size of the land and the building?
- How many bedrooms and bathrooms are included?
- What is the energy rating?
- Are there any inspection or technical reports available?
- Are there any known structural issues or defects?
Questions About Location and Surroundings
The area around the property is just as important as the property itself:
- What is the neighborhood like (safety, shops, schools, transportation)?
- Are there any upcoming developments planned nearby?
- Are there nuisance factors such as noise, traffic, or industrial activity?
Legal and Ownership-Related Questions
Avoid legal headaches by verifying the following:
- Who is the legal owner of the property?
- Is everything properly permitted and legal?
- Are there any disputes or pending claims?
- What is the zoning or land-use designation?
- Is the property freehold or on leasehold (e.g. ground lease)?
- Are there any easements, shared access rights, or restrictions?
- Have all additions or modifications been officially approved?
Financial and Cost-Related Questions
Know what you’re committing to, beyond the purchase price:
- What are the monthly or annual costs (e.g. taxes, HOA fees)?
- What are the typical utility bills?
- Are there any debts or encumbrances on the property?
- Can the property be rented out short-term or long-term?
Technical and Structural Questions
Don’t overlook the infrastructure:
- How old are key systems like heating, plumbing, and electricity?
- Is there insulation (roof, floor, windows)?
- Are there architectural drawings or floor plans?
- Is there any known asbestos or other hazardous materials present?
Documentation and Records
Ask for supporting documents that back up what’s being said:
- Can I view the property title or deed?
- Are cadastral maps and measurements available?
- Can I review a recent tax assessment or utility bill?
- If part of a development or building, is there an active Homeowners’ Association (HOA), and what is its financial status?
Viewing and Next Steps
End your first conversation with clarity about the process:
- When can I schedule a viewing?
- Are there any offers on the table already?
- How does the seller prefer to receive offers?
- Is there a desired date for transfer of ownership?
- What exactly is included in the sale (e.g. appliances, parking space, furnishings)?
Final Thoughts
The more you ask, the better informed you’ll be. These questions can help uncover potential red flags and guide your decision-making, especially if you’re buying property abroad or investing in a new market.
Whether you’re searching in Amsterdam, Barcelona, or the French Riviera, always approach the first contact with a seller as a professional conversation. It’s not just about price — it’s about protecting your investment.
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