ASTON, PA, May 02, 2024—An open house can be a fun, exciting time, with many potential buyers milling around the same space. But if you're unsure what to focus on while perusing, Lisa Pecora & Louise Marchetti, Louise Marchetti & Lisa Pecora of Long & Foster Real Estate offers the following questions you should definitely ask the listing agent before you leave.
How long has the home been on the market? This question can reveal a lot about the space—especially if it has been for sale and empty. If the listing has been lingering on the market for longer than average, there may be a reason why, and you should investigate further.
Have there been any offers? If there are any current offers on the table, the agent will likely let you know without you asking, as the more interest, the better the chances of a bidding war. However, if there are no current offers, learning about offers made in the past can give you insight into how to navigate. "For instance, if the seller has already turned down several low-ball offers, you may know not to bother with a low offer," says Louise Marchetti.
Have there been any renovations? You can usually spot a brand new kitchen or bathroom, but inquiring into any recent harder-to-notice updates—like the roof or electrical system in older homes—will give you good insight behind the value of the property, work needed, and how well it has been maintained.
Are there any known issues? "If the home needs a new roof, has some major plumbing problem or any other large issue, the agent is required to tell you," says Louise Marchetti. Don't be afraid to ask the hard-hitting questions.
Have there been any recent price changes? You can find price fluctuations online, but asking the agent upfront can often spark a conversation about why the price has been changing, and allow you to better gauge how motivated the buyer is.
For more information on real estate, please contact Long & Foster Real Estate at ljpecora@gmail.com, 1-610-497-3400, or Long & Foster Real Estate.
There's No Place Like Home!
Louise is a native and lifelong resident of Philadelphia, while Lisa is a lifelong resident of Delaware county. We know the area and can help you find your dream home, or sell your current home!
Both are members of the National Association of REALTORS, PA Association of REALTORS and Suburban West REALTORS Association and REBAC. We have both taken courses and earned the ABR designation ~ Accredited Buyers Representative. Lisa has also completed the ePro designation and At Home With Diversity.
We truly enjoy what we do and love the opportunity to help others make their dreams come true! The most important part of our business of course is YOU the customer/client. We work for you and will work hard to get you from where you are to where you want to be.
When not working on real estate we both enjoy spending time with family, spending time at the shore and on the beach, watching the Phillies and reading.