Builds & Buys

Understand Seller’s Reason for Selling — Gaining insight into their motivation can help you assess potential property issues or urgency in the transaction.

Why It Matters: Knowing the reason can reveal hidden problems or opportunities for negotiation.

Helpful Resource: Realtor.com: Asking the Seller
Who to Talk To: Your real estate agent for deeper background on the seller’s situation

Research the Property’s History — Look into past owners, previous sale prices, and any legal disputes that might have occurred.

Why It Matters: Past lawsuits or damage can signal underlying issues with the property.

Helpful Resource: Property Record.com
Who to Talk To: Real estate agent or attorney for a thorough background check

Conduct a Title and Liens Search — Verify the property has a clean title, free from outstanding debts or liens.

Why It Matters: Unpaid debts or legal claims can become your responsibility after purchase.

Helpful Resource: Title Search Companies
Who to Talk To: A title company or attorney for a thorough search

Verify Any Recent Renovations or Issues — Ask the seller about major repairs, remodels, or damage (like floods or structural faults).

Why It Matters: Renovations may affect the home’s value; unresolved issues might cost you later.

Helpful Resource: Home Repair Cost Guide
Who to Talk To: Contractors or home inspectors to confirm repair quality

Check for Pending Legal Matters or Disputes — Confirm if any ongoing boundary issues, neighbor disputes, or lawsuits exist.

Why It Matters: Ongoing legal battles can halt or complicate your purchase.

Helpful Resource: Lawyers.com
Who to Talk To: Real estate attorney to verify no unresolved disputes