WHAT HOME BUYERS ARE ASKING WHEN LOOKING AT HOUSES

When a potential buyer is touring your home, they are looking for answers to the many questions racing through their minds. Some are conscious, while others subconscious. Certain questions they will pose to the agents or owners, while others will be discussed amongst themselves or even remain unspoken. By knowing what buyers are looking for, you can do your best to make sure your house provides the answers they’re looking for. It's also important to understand the most common real estate terminology, such as comparative market value and short sale.

• Does this home have enough storage space?
• Is the house big enough to accommodate all our needs?
• Are there enough bedrooms for our children?
• Is there enough room for all our needs?
• Is there a separate home office?
• Is there a play space for the kids?
• Is there space for entertaining?
• Do we have space for overnight guests? 
• Is there an open floor plan?
• Is the yard big enough for entertaining or for the kids to play?
• Can we put in a pool?
• Is there a separate space or apartment for renters or in-laws?
• Are there major features that will need to be replaced in the next few years, such as plumbing, electrical, HVAC, roofing, siding?
• Do the kitchens and/or baths need renovation?
• Is the neighborhood safe?
• Do the neighbors take care of their homes?
• Is the home in a good school district?
• Is the home convenient for commuting?
• Is it close to shopping, restaurants, family and friends?
• Is it an attached dwellings or community with an HOA?
•  What are the rules and restrictions?
• Are pets allowed?
• What are the commons fees and what do they include?
• What are the amenities?
• If there is no HOA, what is the condition of the neighborhood? Do residents take care of their home?
• Has there ever been any water damage? Does the home or the yard flood?
• How new are the appliances?
• Is the home being sold for fair market value?
• What did the owners originally pay?
• When do the owners want/need to close? Does it match your family’s time frame?
• How much work does the home need? Is it major, minor, or just cosmetic?
• Is the home a short sale or foreclosure?
• How long has it been on the market? If for a long time, why?
• Why are the owners selling?
• What improvements or upgrades have been done?
• If any improvement or addition was made, did the owners get the appropriate permits and/or CO?
• When was the home built?
• Is the home being sold as-is?
• Is the home in a flood zone or along a quake line?
• Does the home have an historic designation?

These are some of the more common questions. All homes are unique as are the potential buyers, along with their wants and needs -- and therefore the questions they want answered. You need to know your area and your target buyers so you can make sure to stage your home to show off those features buyers want the most.  

Duke University conducted an interesting study on some of the features people consider important when looking at homes. The results can be helpful when presenting your home to potential buyers.