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Questions to ask, at every step

For you, your lender, your agent, the inspector, the seller and the closing attorney. Print it, or keep it on your phone.

By David Knorr · Last reviewed October 28, 2026

Step 1: Am I ready to buy?

Yourself

  1. How long do I expect to live here? Buying usually pays off over years, not months.
  2. What monthly payment can I carry, with taxes, insurance and HOA dues included?
  3. After closing, how much will be left in savings?

Step 2: Get pre-approved

Your lender

  1. What are the rate and APR, and are points included?
  2. Do you take part in our state's down payment help programs?
  3. Which of your fees can you lower or waive?
  4. How long is the rate lock, and what happens if closing is delayed?
  5. What will my full monthly payment be, with taxes and insurance?

Step 3: Choose your agent

An agent, before you sign

  1. How many first-time buyers have you helped this year?
  2. After the inspection, do you usually ask for repairs or a credit?
  3. What does your agreement say about pay, length, and how I can end it?
  4. Will I work with you, or with someone on your team?

Step 4: Tour homes

The listing agent

  1. How old are the roof, the heating and cooling, and the water heater?
  2. Is there a seller's disclosure I can read now?
  3. Are there known issues, or past insurance claims?
  4. Have there been other offers?

Step 5: Make an offer

Your agent, before you offer

  1. What did the most similar homes nearby sell for, and how long did they take?
  2. How many due diligence days do buyers usually get here right now?
  3. Which terms in this offer protect me if the inspection goes badly?
  4. Who holds the earnest money, and when is it due?

Step 6: Due diligence

Your inspector

  1. If this were your house, what would you fix first?
  2. Which items need a specialist to look at?
  3. What is close to the end of its life?

The seller, through your agent

  1. Can you answer the questions left blank on the disclosure?
  2. Have you made insurance claims on the home?
  3. What was repaired recently, and do you have the receipts?

Step 7: Negotiate repairs

Your agent and lender

  1. What's the largest seller credit my loan allows?
  2. Can we ask for one total credit rather than a list of repairs?
  3. If the seller counters, how much time will we have before the deadline?

Step 8: Close and move in

Your closing attorney

  1. What is my exact cash to close, and how should I pay it?
  2. Which documents can I read before the day?
  3. How do I confirm your wire instructions safely?

infoGeneral information based on the standard Georgia REALTORS® purchase contract and public guidance. Your own contract decides: read it, and ask your agent or closing attorney about anything that matters. Not legal or financial advice.