LAKEWOOD, CO, Mar 28, 2023—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, Mike Ortiz, Real Estate Professional of RE/MAX Professionals 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 Ortiz.

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 Ortiz. 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 RE/MAX Professionals at mike@mikeortiz.net, 303-985-4555, or RE/MAX Professionals.

Mike Ortiz is a servant leader and tech junkie by nature. He was also a former U.S. Marine and served during the first Gulf War. He has held many professional positions that required different skill sets, which range from technical to managerial expertise. Additionally, Mike studied Business Management at California State University Fullerton. He has a B.A. in Leadership and Organizational Studies from the University of Denver and a Masters of Business Administration (MBA) degree from Regis University. He understands that buying or selling a home is more than just a transaction: its a life-changing experience. Thats why as a highly-seasoned real estate professional Mike is dedicated to providing exceptional, personalized service for all his clients. He takes great pride in the relationships he builds and always works relentlessly on his clients behalf to help them achieve their real estate goals. Additionally, Mikes team of experts represents the best and brightest in the industry, and they are always striving to lead the field in research, innovation, and consumer education. Todays buyers and sellers need a trusted resource that can guide them through the complex world of real estate. With their extensive knowledge and commitment to providing only the best and most timely information to their clients, Mikes team is your go-to source for real estate industry insight and advice. Our Mission Statement: Bringing value to the lives we touch and the communities we serve. Our philosophy is simple: clients come first. We pledge to be in constant communication with our clients, keeping them fully informed throughout the entire buying or selling process. We believe that if youre not left with an amazing experience, we havent done our job. We dont measure success through achievements or awards, but through the satisfaction of our clients.