LA PLATA, MD, Mar 28, 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, Bob Harry, Certified Residential Specialist of Century 21 New Millennium 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 Harry.
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 Harry. 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 Century 21 New Millennium at bob.harry@c21nm.com, 301-609-9000, or Century 21 New Millennium.
Bob has been licensed as a REALTOR since 1990, serving both Maryland and Virginia. He has earned the prestigious Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) designation and is both an Accredited Buyer Representative (ABR) and a Graduate REALTOR Institute of Maryland (GRI). In addition, Bob was a Multi-Million Dollar SMAR Platinum Award Recipient from 2005-2014, a Diamond Award Recipient in 2010 and 2014 and is the team leader for the companys Residential Sales Group. He is also in the Southern MD Association of Realtors Hall of Fame.
As a results-oriented professional, Bob has found that maintaining the right attitude is important regardless of market conditions. He balances pro-active strategies with market knowledge, negotiating expertise, and a high level of integrity to satisfy the needs of his customers and clients. A high percentage of Bobs business comes from client referrals and repeat client business.
After many years of observation, interaction, and training in the real estate industry, Bob is able to serve and represent his clients throughout every step of the real estate buying or selling process. For a Buyer, the real estate purchase can be a daunting experience and is probably one of the biggest financial investments of their life. To a Seller, the sale of a home is not just the sale of a property asset, but the leaving behind of many special memories and life experiences. Bob is not only skillful and knowledgeable about the real estate transaction process, but understands full well that he is in a People business not a Real Estate Only business.
Bob Harry was born in Washington D.C. and is a lifelong resident of the D.C. Metro area. Bob is a Vietnam Veteran who served in the US Navy and retired after 33 years of service as a Currency Production Manager at the Treasury Department. Bob is also past President of Habitat for Humanity in Charles County and resides in Swan Point, Maryland with his wife, Paula. He and Paula share their love with five children and fourteen grandchildren.