🏡 Questions to Ask When Viewing a House: The Ultimate Open House Guide  

Attending an open house or home showing in Sanpete County is an exciting step in your home-buying journey! But before you get swept up in the moment, it’s essential to ask the right questions to avoid surprises and make a smart investment.

This Ultimate Open House Guide walks you through questions to ask at a home showing, helping you evaluate a property’s condition, uncover hidden issues, and ensure it meets your needs. Whether you’re buying in Ephraim, Manti, or Spring City, these essential questions will give you confidence when touring homes.

💡 If you’re looking for a quick, checklist-style guide to bring with you to home tours, check out 25 Essential Questions to Ask at a Home Showing.

❓ What to Ask When Viewing a House

Many buyers fall in love with a home’s layout, location, or curb appeal—but forget to dig deeper. A home might look great on the surface, but asking the right questions can help you uncover potential red flags.

🏡 What Should You Look for When Viewing a House?

✔ Are there any recent repairs or renovations? – Ask if the home has had updates to major systems like the roof, HVAC, or plumbing.

• Ask if the home has had updates to major systems like the roof, HVAC, or plumbing.
• Were the renovations done by licensed professionals?
• Do warranties transfer to the new homeowner?
• Ask about any past issues that required significant fixes and how they were addressed. Knowing about prior repairs can help you make an informed decision about the property’s long-term maintenance.

✔ Is the home structurally sound? – Look for cracks, uneven floors, or signs of settling.

• Look for cracks, uneven floors, or signs of settling.
• Check doors and windows—do they stick or not close properly?
• Inspect the basement and attic for water damage or mold.
• Ask when viewing a house if a recent home inspection was conducted and request the report. A professional home inspection can reveal hidden issues that may affect property value.

✔ Are there red flags that could cause issues later? – Water stains, musty smells, or signs of pests may indicate underlying problems.

• Water stains, musty smells, or signs of pests may indicate underlying problems.
• Look at ceilings, under sinks, and along baseboards for potential water damage.
• Ask about pest control history and recent treatments.
• Check for lead paint, especially in older homes. Many homes built before 1978 may contain lead-based paint, which can pose health risks.

✔ How does this home compare to others in the area? – Get a comparative market analysis (CMA) from your agent to ensure it’s priced fairly.

• Get a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) from your real estate agent to ensure it’s priced fairly.
• Check recent sale prices for similar homes.
• Research how long homes stay on the market in the neighborhood.
• Investigate if any major developments nearby could affect future property value. New infrastructure, schools, or shopping centers can either increase or decrease demand in the area.

✔ Does the home meet my long-term needs? – Think beyond today—will this home still work for you in 5-10 years?

• Think beyond today—will this home still work for you in 5-10 years?
• Consider growth plans, family needs, and lifestyle changes.
• Look for amenities that could add to your quality of life, such as nearby parks, schools, and shopping areas. Understanding local amenities helps you determine if the home meets your needs.
• Check for expansion potential—can you add on or remodel?
• Look into zoning laws if future modifications are planned.

🏡 Essential Questions to Ask at an Open House or Home Showing

🔍 Understanding the Home’s Condition

✅ What is the overall condition of the home?
Look beyond fresh paint—check for lead paint. cracks in walls, water damage, and outdated systems that may need costly repairs.

• Look beyond fresh paint—check for lead paint, cracks in walls, water damage, and outdated systems that may need costly repairs.
• Ask for a recent inspection report if available.
• Review any appliance warranties. If appliances are included in the sale, verify their condition and energy efficiency.

✅ Are there any known foundation issues?
Ask about past inspections, repairs, or any ongoing concerns that could require expensive fixes.

• Ask about past inspections, repairs, or any ongoing concerns that could require expensive fixes.
• Look for exterior cracks in the foundation.
• Check if nearby homes have experienced foundation shifts, which could indicate soil movement in the area.

✅ Has the home had any major repairs?
Major updates like roof replacements, foundation repairs, or new HVAC systems can impact the home’s value and longevity.

• Learn how old the HVAC system is, whether it has been maintained, and if it’s energy efficient to avoid costly repairs.
• Ask about seasonal energy bills to gauge efficiency.
• Ask the real estate agent about any available energy efficiency upgrades, such as solar panels or smart thermostats, that could lower utility costs.

✅ Is the home in a flood zone or prone to natural disasters?
Certain areas in Sanpete County may be at risk for flooding, wildfires, or earthquakes—check FEMA maps and insurance requirements.

• Check FEMA Flood Maps:

  • Use FEMA’s Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) to see if the home is in a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA).
  • FIRMs help determine flood insurance requirements and zoning restrictions.
  • Search FEMA Flood Maps Here

• Use Utah’s Floodplain Mapping Resources:

  • The Utah Division of Emergency Management provides interactive tools for assessing flood risk.
  • Utah Flood Hazard Mapping

• Review Additional Flood Risk Data:

  • The Utah Flood Risk Handbook offers detailed assessments on flood-prone areas.
  • Utah Flood Risk Handbook

• Ask About Historical Natural Disasters:

  • Has the home previously experienced flooding?
  • Are wildfires a common concern in the area?
  • Has the property been affected by earthquakes or landslides?

• Check for Insurance Requirements:

  • Homes in high-risk zones may require flood insurance.
  • Standard homeowner’s insurance does not cover flood damage—ask your agent for details.

• Ask Your Agent or Home Inspector:

  • Ask when viewing a house if past flood claims have been made.
  • A home inspector can look for signs of water damage, foundation erosion, and poor drainage.
  • A real estate agent can verify if the property qualifies for disaster mitigation grants or lower insurance rates.

By consulting these resources and asking the right questions, you can make an informed decision about buying a home in Sanpete County and ensure it meets your needs while minimizing risk.

✅ Are there any zoning restrictions or property limitations?
Planning to build a shop, keep livestock, or rent out the home? Make sure local zoning laws allow it.

✅ What should you ask regarding the heating and cooling systems?
Learn how old the HVAC system is, whether it has been maintained, and if it’s energy efficient to avoid costly repairs.

📌 For a focused list of these essential home condition questions, visit 25 Essential Questions to Ask at a Home Showing.

🤝 Questions to Ask the Seller or Listing Agent

✅ Why is the seller moving?
If the seller is relocating, that’s normal—but if they’re leaving due to neighborhood issues or maintenance costs, dig deeper.

✅ How long has the house been on the market?
If a home has been sitting for months, it may be overpriced, need repairs, or have something turning buyers off.

✅ Is there something that’s deterring buyers?
Ask directly if buyers have been put off by the layout, busy street, required repairs, or other concerns.

✅ What are the average utility costs?
Older homes may have higher heating and cooling expenses—ask for a breakdown of energy costs.

✅ Are there contingencies the seller wants to make?

• Some sellers may request a lease-back agreement, special closing terms, or additional conditions.
• Ensure that your offer includes the right contingencies to protect your interests, such as financing, appraisal, and home inspection contingencies.

✅ What should you ask when buying a property in an HOA?

• Find out about the homeowners association (HOA) fees, rules, restrictions, and special assessments before committing to buying a house.
• Ask the real estate agent if there are any upcoming HOA assessments or fee increases that could impact affordability.

📊 Making an Informed Decision When Buying a Home

✅ Would buying a home in this area be an investment or a liability?
Research home appreciation trends, rental demand, and future development projects to determine long-term value.

✅ What are the schools, parks, and amenities like?
Even if you don’t have kids, a strong school district and access to parks increase resale value.

✅ Where can I find information about crime rates?
Check local law enforcement websites, community crime maps, or city data reports for accurate safety insights.

✅ How can your agent help you make an offer to purchase a home?
A skilled agent can negotiate the best price, advise on contingencies, and protect your interests throughout the process

📋 How to Prepare for an Open House Visit & What to Bring

Visiting an open house is an exciting step in the home-buying process, but house hunting can be overwhelming if you don’t come prepared. To ensure you make an informed decision and find the perfect home, follow these key preparation tips:

✅ Bring a checklist and take notes

• Details can blur when touring multiple homes for sale in one day.
• Keep track of important features, potential red flags, and questions you should ask.
• Make sure to ask about anything unclear—your notes will help later when comparing properties.

✅ Ask about recent inspections and seller disclosures

• Home inspections reveal known issues that may affect property value or future maintenance costs.
• Seller disclosures list past repairs, potential hazards, and legal concerns associated with the property.
• Also ask if the home has a warranty or major systems that have been replaced recently.

✅ Walk through the neighborhood

• Visit at different times of the day to get a true sense of the area.
• Observe traffic patterns, noise levels, and facilities in the area.
• Check the quality of nearby schools, local parks, and amenities—key factors that impact resale value.
• Ask your agent about crime rates, zoning laws, and future development plans that may affect the home’s long-term value.

✅ Bring a flashlight for basements and attics

• These areas often hide structural issues, water damage, insulation problems, or pest infestations.
• Look for signs of past flooding, mold, or weak flooring—issues that could lead to unexpected costs associated with the property.

✅ Discuss your findings with your real estate agent

• A buyer’s agent represents you and can help you make an informed decision by identifying potential concerns.
• Your agent may suggest negotiating closing costs or requesting seller concessions if major repairs are needed.
• Talk to a home inspector about any concerns before making an offer.
• Also ask your agent whether the asking price is reasonable based on similar homes in the area.

By preparing for an open house and asking relevant questions, you’ll be in the best position to find a home that meets your needs and make an informed purchase.

🌍 Common Questions on Google About Viewing a House

When home buyers search for questions to ask at an open house or key questions to ask when viewing a house, they often look for answers to these essential questions to ask when you purchase a home. Asking relevant questions can help you make an informed decision and find the perfect home.

❌ What not to tell a seller’s real estate agent when buying?

Avoid revealing your maximum budget, urgency to buy, or emotional attachment—this weakens your negotiation power and may affect your asking price.

• A listing agent represents the seller’s interests, not yours. Their goal is to secure the best deal for the homeowner, so be mindful of what you disclose.
• If you’re working with a buyer’s agent, provide them with all necessary details, such as your budget, must-have features, and any concerns about the home. A real estate agent representing you can use this information to negotiate the best deal and ensure your interests are protected.
• A buyer’s agent can also help you anticipate closing costs, contingencies, and potential repairs, allowing you to make a well-informed offer.

📦 Are the appliances included?

Not all homes include refrigerators, washers, dryers, or other appliances—always verify what’s included in the sale before making an offer.

• Some sellers may include major appliances as an incentive, while others may remove them before closing. Make sure to ask what stays with the home.
• If an appliance is included, check its age and energy efficiency—outdated appliances may need to be replaced soon, leading to extra costs associated with the property.
• Ask about potential warranties that may transfer with the home. A home warranty can provide valuable insight into what repairs may be covered.

🛠 Have there been any major renovations or repairs?

Ask about big-ticket updates like electrical, plumbing, or roof replacements, and check if warranties transfer to you.

• Knowing the age of the roof, HVAC system, and water heater can help you determine whether they will need to be replaced soon.
• A home inspector can evaluate major systems and safety hazards that may not be visible during a home showing. Make sure to ask about previous inspection reports.
• Home buyers should ask about potential structural issues, such as foundation cracks, outdated wiring, or plumbing concerns.
• The asking price should reflect the home’s condition. If major renovations are needed, you may want to ask about negotiating the price or requesting seller concessions to cover future maintenance.

🏫 What are the local schools, parks, and amenities?

Spring City, Manti, and Ephraim all offer great schools, outdoor recreation, and small-town charm—key factors that enhance property value and attract home buyers.

• Schools: The area is served by well-rated public schools and a respected private academy, making it appealing for families and potential buyers. Proximity to Snow College in Ephraim also adds to the local economy and rental demand.

• Parks & Outdoor Recreation: Residents enjoy community parks, hiking trails, fishing spots, and camping areas. The region’s access to Palisade State Park and scenic mountain landscapes makes it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.

• Local Amenities: Charming historic districts, local shops, restaurants, and cultural events create a vibrant small-town atmosphere. Essential services such as healthcare, grocery stores, and community centers ensure convenience for homeowners.

Investing in a home near quality schools, parks, and amenities can boost property value over time and make resale easier, whether you’re buying as a long-term homeowner or considering future investment potential.

Work With a Local Real Estate Expert in Sanpete County

Navigating an open house or viewing a house can be overwhelming, but asking the right questions ensures you make an informed decision. From uncovering potential red flags to understanding property value, having an experienced Sanpete County real estate agent by your side can give you the confidence to find the perfect home.

As a local REALTOR® with Century 21 Essentials Realty, I help home buyers like you evaluate properties, negotiate the best price, and ensure you’re making a smart investment. Whether you’re looking in Ephraim, Manti, Spring City, or anywhere in Sanpete County, I can guide you through the home buying process with expertise and local market knowledge.

✔ Need help making an offer? I’ll help you structure a competitive bid.
✔ Want to ensure you’re getting a fair price? I’ll provide a comparative market analysis (CMA).
✔ Looking for a property with strong resale value? I’ll help you assess the neighborhood, amenities, and future market trends.

If you’re house hunting in Sanpete County, let’s find a home that meets your needs and investment goals. I’m here to answer your questions and make the process smooth and stress-free.

📍 David Sedlak – REALTOR®
🏡 Century 21 Essentials Realty – Ephraim, Utah
🔗 Click here to contact me