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Modular Home Insights | February 18th, 2026

What to Ask Before You Buy a Home

If you’ve ever wondered, “Is now a good time to buy a house?” you’re not alone. Many families focus on timing the market, but what matters most are the questions to ask when buying a house. Markets and interest rates will always change, but knowing what to look out for when buying a house can have a much bigger impact on your long-term happiness. The right home should fit your lifestyle, your budget, and your future plans.

After decades of building homes, we’ve seen the key things to consider when buying a house that often get missed. That’s why we’ve created a list to help you understand the most important things to look for when buying a house, so you can move forward with confidence and clarity.

Does This Home Fit How You Live?

It is easy to fall in love with finishes and first impressions, but one of the most important questions to ask when buying a house is whether it truly fits your everyday life.

Think about your mornings. Are you packing lunches, finding shoes and juggling backpacks all at once? Do you have enough storage for coats, sports gear and everything that comes with family life? Now think about your evenings. Do you want one open space where everyone gathers, or do you prefer a little separation so kids can play while adults unwind?

One of the biggest things to consider when buying a house is function. A home should support your routines, not just look good in photos.

Will the Floor Plan Still Work in Five to Ten Years?

Your life will change, and your home should be able to change with you. When thinking about what to look for when buying a house, consider how the layout will work long term.

Will you want space to entertain? Is your family growing? Will kids eventually need more privacy? Are you working from home now or might you in the future?

The right floor plan puts bedrooms in smart locations, avoids bottlenecks in busy areas like the kitchen and includes storage where you actually need it. A home can be beautiful and still feel exhausting if the layout does not match real life.

What’s Included in the Purchase Price

One of the easiest things to look out for when buying a house is what is included and what is not.

Ask about finishes, appliances, landscaping, decks or steps, utility hookups, foundations and optional upgrades. A home that looks less expensive at first may require added costs later, which can quickly change your budget.

Understanding this upfront helps you compare homes clearly and avoid surprises.

Is the Home Energy Efficient?

Energy efficiency directly affects comfort and monthly costs, so it is an important thing to consider when buying a house.

Ask about insulation, window quality, heating systems and ventilation. These details help reduce drafts, improve comfort in every season and keep utility bills more predictable over time. Good energy efficiency is not flashy, but you will feel the difference every single month.

What Are the Bones of the House Made Of?

Trends come and go, but solid construction lasts. One of the most important things to look out for when buying a house is what you cannot see.

Ask about building methods, materials, and quality standards. Find out where the builder focuses their attention behind the walls.

One of the best ways to feel confident in a builder’s quality is to see their work over time. Looking through past customer photo galleries and reading homeowner testimonials can give you real insight into how homes hold up and how the builder supports their homeowners long after move in.

Years from now, strong construction will matter far more than any design trend.

What Warranty and Support Are Included After Move In?

Buying a home is a big decision, and you should know what support looks like after move in.

Ask what the warranty covers, how customer care works, and who to contact if something comes up. A builder who stands behind their homes stays involved long after the keys are handed over.

We always recommend reviewing the warranty process and coverage upfront so you know exactly what to expect. You can see how our warranty and customer care process works here.

What Type of Home Maintenance Should I Expect Annually?

Every home requires maintenance, but the amount can vary. It is important to understand what you are comfortable taking on.

Some tasks happen monthly, some seasonally and some annually. Newer homes often require less upfront maintenance, while older homes may need more attention right away.

Knowing this helps you choose a home that fits your lifestyle, not one that adds stress.

Who Is the Builder Really?

This is a trust question and one of the most overlooked things to consider when buying a house.

Look beyond the website. Ask how long the builder has been around, whether they use local trades and what past homeowners say about their experience. A strong reputation and long history matter.

A builder who plans to be here for decades is more likely to stand behind their work.

Do I Love the Community I Am Moving Into?

You are not just buying a house. You are choosing a lifestyle.

Look at the neighbourhood, nearby amenities, commute time, schools and overall pace of life. A home can be perfect on paper but still feel wrong if the community does not support your day to day life.

This is one of the most personal but important things to look for when buying a house.

What Is the Realistic Timeline?

Whether you are buying a quick possession home or building from the ground up, clarity matters.

Ask when the home will be move in ready, what steps happen along the way and what decisions you need to make and when. A great builder will guide you through the process and make it feel manageable, not rushed.

Confidence comes from knowing what to expect.

What Over 50 Years of Building Homes Has Taught Us

Everything you just read comes from real homeowner experiences. The exciting moments, the challenges and the things people often say they wish they had asked sooner.

At Jandel Homes, we have spent more than 50 years helping families make one of the biggest decisions of their lives. Along the way, we have seen what homeowners love long term, what they outgrow and what truly makes a house feel like home.

Buying a home should feel informed and manageable, not overwhelming. If you are ready to ask the right questions and want a builder who will guide you every step of the way, we are here to help.

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