For many, buying a home is one of the most significant financial and emotional investments they’ll ever make. In competitive markets like Scottsdale, AZ, where real estate moves quickly, it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of a desirable listing and rush into an offer. However, asking the right questions before making an offer is key to ensuring the property is the right fit—both now and in the long term.
Making an offer on a home isn't just about the asking price. It’s about fully understanding the property, the seller’s situation, and how the purchase aligns with the buyer’s financial and lifestyle goals. Whether it's your first home or your fifth, these strategic questions can help you avoid surprises and submit a stronger, more confident offer.
Why is the seller moving?
One of the first and most telling questions a buyer should ask is why the seller is moving. The seller's motivation can offer insight into how much room there may be for negotiation. A seller relocating for work or downsizing quickly may be more flexible on price or terms. Conversely, a seller who isn’t in a rush might be less inclined to budge on their asking price.
Understanding the seller’s priorities can also help shape your offer in a way that appeals to them beyond just the dollar amount—perhaps by accommodating a preferred closing date or offering a rent-back option.
How long has the home been on the market?
In a fast-moving real estate market like Scottsdale, days on market (DOM) can reveal a lot. A home that’s been listed for a few days may attract multiple offers, whereas one that’s been sitting for several weeks or longer could be a sign of overpricing or issues uncovered during previous inspections.
Knowing how long a property has been on the market allows buyers to gauge their approach. If the home is new to market, a strong offer may be required to compete. If it’s been available for a while, buyers might consider negotiating more aggressively—assuming they’ve uncovered the reason for the delay.
Are there any known issues with the home?
Before submitting an offer, buyers should ask if there are any known defects or past issues with the property. This might include foundation problems, past water damage, aging roofing, or plumbing and electrical concerns. While a home inspection will uncover many of these issues, it’s helpful to be aware of any red flags early on.
In some cases, the seller may have completed a pre-listing inspection and made repairs in advance. Asking for documentation on those repairs can provide additional peace of mind and help buyers determine whether additional contingencies are necessary.
What’s included in the sale?
It’s important to clarify what is—and isn’t—included in the sale of the home. While built-in appliances typically stay with the property, other items like washers, dryers, window treatments, or outdoor furniture may or may not be included.
Understanding what is conveyed with the sale helps avoid confusion or disappointment during final walkthroughs. It also ensures the offer is accurately written to reflect the buyer’s expectations and avoids any disputes later in the process.
What is the neighborhood like?
Location is everything, and while a home might be perfect on the inside, its surroundings matter just as much. Buyers should ask about the neighborhood’s character, traffic patterns, school districts, and future development plans. Scottsdale, for instance, is made up of distinct neighborhoods, each with its own personality—from the luxury estates of North Scottsdale to the walkable charm of Old Town.
A seasoned real estate agent will offer valuable local insights and help buyers match a home to their lifestyle preferences. They’ll also advise on resale potential based on location, which is essential for long-term investment strategy.
What are the average utility costs and taxes?
Understanding the monthly costs of homeownership is essential for setting a realistic budget. Buyers should ask for historical utility bills, property tax amounts, and homeowners association (HOA) fees if applicable. In a climate like Scottsdale’s, where air conditioning use is frequent, energy bills can be a significant part of the budget.
Knowing the full cost of owning the home helps buyers assess affordability beyond the mortgage payment alone and prevents surprises after moving in.
Are there any pending offers or interest?
In competitive real estate markets, it’s crucial to understand whether other offers are on the table. If there’s already interest, buyers may need to act quickly and submit their best offer. Alternatively, if the seller hasn’t received much activity, there may be more room to negotiate.
A well-connected local agent will often have the inside scoop from the listing agent and can advise buyers on how aggressive or flexible their offer should be.
Has the home had any price reductions?
If the home’s price has been lowered since its initial listing, that could signal the seller’s willingness to negotiate. It might also reflect changing market conditions or feedback from other buyers. Either way, it’s important for buyers to understand the pricing history and what it says about the seller’s mindset.
An agent can provide comparable market data to help assess whether the home is priced appropriately and ensure the offer aligns with fair market value.
Ready to make your move in Scottsdale?
Making an offer on a home is a major milestone, and preparation is the key to success. Buyers who ask the right questions can move forward with confidence, knowing they’ve made an informed decision. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned investor, having an experienced agent on your side makes all the difference.
Your Scottsdale Real Estate Experts
If you're planning to buy a home in Scottsdale, the
Craig Bennett Group offers local market expertise and trusted guidance every step of the way. From answering the right questions to negotiating the best terms, their team ensures buyers are well-prepared to succeed in today’s competitive market. Reach out today to get started on your path to homeownership with a team that knows how to win.
