what questions would you ask the vendors ?

[typicalvirgo]

So, after many months and much heartache another house has come on the market we are interested in.

Had a viewing this morning. The agent showed us around and suggested if we had any questions she would pass them onto the vendors.

I was thinking asking about the neighbours and what would they change if they were staying. (i know their reason for leaving the area thanks to the wonders of the internet ) So what would you routinely ask ?

[minipie]

Well, there's 2 categories of questions. Questions about the house/area, and questions which might be relevant to your negotiating position.

I think most of the questions in the first category will be answered by the usual questionnaire your lawyers will send them, plus your survey. But if you want to know the answers more quickly I'd ask: have you had any issues with subsidence, flooding or rot, or any disputes with neighbours (as at least that gets most of the biggies out of the way before you commit).

In the second category:

Who set the price, them or the agents? (best to ask the agents this one)
Why are they moving? (sounds like you already know this one)
Have they found somewhere to buy yet? (If the answer is no: would they move into rented?)
Do they have a particular deadline or are they flexible? (v relevant if you are in a chain yourself)

[typicalvirgo]

Flooding is a good one, thanks.

I had also thought about the extension they have put on, just to check it all conforms with the planning rules.

I know they have gone with the agents price, they are priced keenly as they have already bought a house in another part of the country - the joys of being a footballer !