What Every First-Time Homebuyer Should Know Before Making an Offer

By Convoy Home Loans

Buying your first home is a thrilling step that comes with plenty of excitement and a healthy dose of nerves. Before you begin imagining how your furniture will fit in a new space or picturing summer afternoons in the backyard, it’s important to pause and make sure you have the information you need.

If you’re like most first-time buyers, you want to be smart, avoid costly mistakes, and find a property that feels right. But where do you start when it comes to touring homes and preparing to make an offer? This guide lays out the questions you should ask, what to focus on while touring properties, and how to identify your top priorities before you take that leap.

• Asking the right questions helps you understand the property and how it fits your goals.
• Touring a home requires you to look beyond the surface and pay attention to details that impact your lifestyle.
• Prioritizing your must-haves versus nice-to-haves gives you clarity when comparing homes.
• Staying organized throughout the process increases your confidence in making an offer.

Before you get caught up in the emotion of finding a home you love, take a step back and gather the details that really matter. Knowing what to ask can save you time, money, and frustration later on.

Start by asking about the property’s history and the seller’s motivation. Understanding why the home is on the market and how long it’s been listed can provide clues about pricing and potential negotiation room. If the home has been sitting for a while, there may be flexibility on terms.

You’ll also want to know about any recent upgrades, how old the major systems are, and if the seller has completed a pre-listing inspection. Inquire about monthly expenses, such as utilities, homeowners association dues if applicable, and special assessments. These recurring costs can impact your monthly budget more than you might realize.

• Why is the home being sold?
• How long has the property been on the market?
• Has a pre-listing inspection been completed, and can I review the report?
• What are the average monthly utility costs?
• What improvements or updates have been made recently?
• Are there any warranties that will transfer with the property?
• Have there been any major repairs to the roof, foundation, or systems in recent years?
• Is there anything included or excluded from the sale (appliances, fixtures, etc.)?

With so many choices on the market, it’s easy to get overwhelmed or lose sight of what’s most important to you. Before you get too deep into the search, sit down and make a clear list of your priorities. Consider your current and future needs, lifestyle, and what you’re willing to compromise on.

Start with your non-negotiables. These are features or locations you absolutely need, such as a certain number of bedrooms, proximity to work, or access to public transportation.

Next, list your nice-to-haves. These are features you’d like to see but could live without if everything else checks out. This might include a specific kitchen style, a spacious yard, or a dedicated home office.

As you tour homes, keep your list handy. If you find yourself drawn to a property that doesn’t check your must-have boxes, take a moment to reassess. Sometimes, it’s easy to be swayed by a beautiful renovation or an appealing price. Staying focused on your priorities will help you make a choice that truly works for your needs in the long run.

• Write down your top must-haves (bedroom count, location, layout).
• Make a list of features you’d like but could do without.
• Keep your list on hand during each property tour.
• Revisit your priorities after touring homes to stay focused.
• Ask yourself which items you can compromise on if needed.

Touring homes is one of the most exciting parts of the process. It’s easy to get distracted by gorgeous finishes or sleek staging, but as a first-time buyer, it’s important to look deeper. Think beyond the paint color or the furniture arrangement. You want to focus on features and details that will impact your daily life and long-term investment.

Pay close attention to the layout and flow of the home. Does the space make sense for your lifestyle? Are the bedrooms and bathrooms in the right locations? Is there enough storage for your needs? Assess the condition of major elements like floors, windows, and doors. Look for signs of wear, water damage, or deferred maintenance. Open the cabinets, closets, and doors to make sure everything functions properly.

Evaluate the natural light and noise levels at different times of day. Stand in each room and ask yourself how you would feel living in the space. Don’t forget to step outside and assess the condition of the exterior, yard, and any shared spaces. If you notice any areas of concern, jot them down so that you can revisit them later or ask for clarification.

• The flow and practicality of the floor plan.
• Natural light in each room.
• Overall condition of walls, ceilings, and floors.
• Storage space (closets, cabinets, pantries).
• Functionality of doors and windows.
• Signs of water damage or leaks.
• Age and condition of appliances and fixtures.
• Outdoor spaces: landscaping and drainage.
• Parking situation and ease of access.

Ask about the seller’s motivation, how long the home has been on the market, any recent improvements, average monthly expenses, and whether a pre-listing inspection has been completed.

Focus on the functionality of the floor plan, storage space, natural light, condition of major appliances and systems, and how the space fits your daily needs rather than merely cosmetic details.

A pre-listing inspection is completed by the seller before putting the home on the market. Reviewing the report can give you early insight into the home’s condition before you make an offer.

Buying your first home is a major milestone, and being prepared makes the process much smoother. With the right questions, a keen eye during tours, and a clear sense of your priorities, you’ll be able to make a confident offer on a home that fits your needs.

Ready to move forward with confidence? Team up with Convoy Home Loans, a Nationally Licensed Mortgage Broker based in El Segundo, CA. Whether you’re buying your first home or exploring your next investment, our team is committed to helping you find the right financing options for your needs.