Buying a house will probably be the biggest purchase you make in your lifetime, so you need to be sure you’re making the right choice.

One way to put your mind at rest is to ask lots of questions about any property you’re interested in, so you have all the information you need before signing on the dotted line.

Here are three essential questions you should put to the estate agent.

Why is the owner selling?

The answer to this question should give you a deeper insight into how long the owner/s have lived at the house and whether they’ve been happy in it.

If they’ve not lived there long this may be an indication there’s a problem with the area, the house itself, or the neighbours.

This question will also indicate whether the owner is moving for a specific reason, such as a new job, and is possibly looking for a quick sale and might accept a lower offer.

What’s included in the sale?

Find out exactly what’s included in the price of the property and what the previous occupant is planning to leave behind.

Are they taking all the appliances? What about the fixtures and fittings?

Make sure you are clear about what you’ll be paying for, and if you don’t want any or all of the items the previous owner/s are planning to leave, confirm how they will be removed.

Is everything in working order?

When you’re viewing the property, make sure you try out all the taps, toilets, showers, plug sockets, light switches, windows, cupboard doors and appliances (if they are included) to determine if they are in good working order.

If you’re not happy with something, it’s best to tell the agent as soon as possible, so that arrangements can be made to fix anything that is broken or not working properly, or used as a bargaining tool to bring down the price.

Happy house hunting!

Sources: Home Owners Alliance / Sheerluxe