Questions to Ask: Your Real‑Estate Checklist

When it comes to property, the right questions can save you time, money, and headaches. Whether you're hunting for a new home, eyeing a rental, or thinking about selling, you need a quick list of things to ask. Below you’ll find the most useful queries that cut through the fluff and get straight to the facts you care about.

Top Questions for Sellers and Agents

First off, any agent or seller should be able to answer these without hesitation:

• What’s the exact price breakdown? Ask for the list price, any discounts, and what’s included in the sale.
• How long has the property been on the market? A long stay could hint at issues.
• Are there any recent repairs or renovations? Get dates, costs, and who did the work.
• What are the average utility costs? Knowing typical bills helps you budget early.
• Can you see the Energy Performance Certificate? It tells you how much you’ll spend on heating and electricity.

These questions force the seller or agent to be transparent. If they dodge any, take a step back and rethink the deal.

Questions to Protect Your Wallet

Even after the price looks right, hidden expenses can bite. Make sure you ask:

• What’s the council tax band and the expected annual amount?
• Are there any service charges or ground rent (especially for flats or shared ownership)?
• What’s the typical monthly mortgage payment based on a realistic deposit?
• Do we need a structural survey? Some older homes hide costly defects.
• Is there a leasehold? If so, how many years are left on the lease?

Getting clear numbers on these items lets you compare homes on a true‑cost basis, not just the headline price.

Finally, remember that the best questions are the ones that fit your situation. If you’re a first‑time buyer, ask about government schemes or help to purchase. If you’re renting, probe the landlord’s maintenance response time and any fees beyond rent. Write down the answers, compare them side by side, and you’ll walk away with confidence instead of doubt.

Keep this list handy whenever you step into a viewing or start a phone call. The more precise your queries, the clearer the picture you’ll get, and the smoother your property journey will be.