Buying a house for the first time is a nerve-wracking process, but it’s also exciting. You get to pick the place where you’ll hopefully spend the rest of your life, and you get to personalize it to your heart’s content. However, you must make sure that the house you pick is a good deal. Ask your real estate agent these questions to ensure your house will last for years.

Is the Foundation in Good Condition?

Your house’s foundation is critical to the whole building’s integrity, and if it’s creeping or deteriorating, you’re going to have to spend way too much money on repairs in a few years. Ask for a professional inspection of the foundation, which should be supported with house piers Tulsa OK for maximum stability.

How Old Is the House?

Old houses are fun because they have unique designs and intriguing histories, but they also carry their share of problems. Depending on how long it’s been since a house was renovated, it may still have lead paint or asbestos in the walls. These are health concerns for anyone, but they’re especially troubling if you have kids. If an inspector finds these problems, demand that the owner pay for their removal or do not buy the house.

Why Is the Owner Leaving?

Usually, people sell their houses because they’re retiring to a smaller home or they’re moving for a job opportunity. Sometimes, though, people leave their houses to escape expensive or unsettling problems. When you don’t get a chance to speak to the owner in person, have your real estate agent find out their reasoning. If the owner won’t give you a concrete explanation for moving, consider removing your bid.

Become a professional home buyer on your first try by asking your real estate agent these questions about your house.