If you're planning to purchase a house, our real estate agents recommend attending some open houses to take a closer look. While online listings give you basic information, open houses provide the perfect opportunity to see the details, assess pros and cons, and ask important questions about the house.

• What's the neighborhood like?
  You may be familiar with the area in general, but you should ask questions about neighborhood activities and amenities. Ask the hosting agent about neighborhood amenities such as cultural centers and theaters; community parks; restaurants and shopping malls; schools and daycare centers; and medical facilities.
• Is there a Homeowners Association (HOA)?
  Houses in some neighborhoods are part of a local homeowners association that attaches monthly HOA dues and regulations on property guidelines. HOAs are designed to protect neighborhood home values, but property restrictions can limit your options for home improvements, rentals, and pets. If the house is part of an HOA, get information on dues and restrictions before you make an offer.
• How long has the house been on the market?
  Asking about the house's time on the market provides valuable insight into its desirability and potential negotiation leverage. It helps determine if the price is fair, if there are any underlying issues, and if there is room for negotiation or urgency in making an offer.
• Are there any offers on the house?
  Bowling Green homes for sale that are in good condition and competitively priced may draw multiple offers very quickly, but the seller may wait to see if additional offers come in before choosing one. If there are offers on the table and you submit a low offer, the seller may immediately reject your offer. If there are no offers, you're in a good position to submit a lower offer, then negotiate if necessary.
• Are there any renovations or upgrades?
  Home renovations and upgrades are common, especially in smaller, older homes. Adding a bedroom, upgrading a kitchen and bathroom, building a sunroom, enclosing a garage, and installing a deck or patio are common home improvements, but they should always be done in accordance with local building codes. If you're looking at a home with DIY renovations, you may face electrical, plumbing, and structural problems.
• What stays with the house?
  During the open house, you may be impressed by the gorgeous dining room chandelier or the state-of-the-art kitchen appliances, but don't count on the sellers leaving them. Sellers often take expensive items with them unless the buyer wants to negotiate during the sale. For clarification, ask the hosting agent which items stay with the house.
• Do you have a copy of the disclosure statement?
  Real estate regulations require sellers to list all known material defects in their homes. A disclosure statement gives important information about the age of the roof, lead-based paint in the house, and termite treatments. The open house hosting agent may have copies of the disclosure statement and gladly give you one if you ask.

If you're considering a move to Bowling Green, contact us for information on neighborhoods, available properties, and prices that fit your lifestyle.