Questions You’ll Want to Ask When Looking At Homes in Buffalo

Are you currently on the hunt for your dream home in Buffalo? If so, you’re probably feeling a mix of excitement and anxiety. After all, buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make. You want to make sure you find the perfect property that fits your budget, lifestyle, and needs.

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions most people make—and if you’re looking in Buffalo, NY, it’s essential to do your homework. With a unique mix of historic neighborhoods, up-and-coming areas, and ever-changing weather conditions, Buffalo offers a wide variety of housing options. But before you sign any paperwork, make sure you’re asking the right questions.

To help you make the most informed decision possible, it’s important to ask the right questions when looking at homes. Here are six important questions you’ll want to ask when searching for your dream home in Buffalo.

1. What are the local schools like?

If you have children or are planning to have children in the future, the quality of the local schools is likely a top priority for you. Even if you don’t have kids, the quality of the schools can impact the value of your home.

Be sure to ask your agent about the local schools and do your own research as well. Look up school rankings, graduation rates, and any other information that’s important to you. Your agent can also provide insight into the school district boundaries and any upcoming changes that may impact the quality of the schools.

At Buffalo Brick & Mortar LLC, our agents have a deep knowledge of the local school districts in Buffalo. We can provide you with information on the best schools in the area and help you find a home that’s within your preferred school district.

From quiet, tree-lined streets in North Buffalo to the vibrant, revitalized West Side, Buffalo neighborhoods each have their own character—and quirks.

Why it matters: You’re not just buying a home; you’re investing in a community.
Ask neighbors or your agent: “What’s it like here during the winter? How quickly are roads plowed? Is there street parking during snow bans?”

2. What is the crime rate in the area?

No one wants to live in an area with a high crime rate. Before you make an offer on a home, be sure to research the local crime statistics. You can find this information on the local police department’s website or through a quick Google search.

Your agent can also provide insight into the safety of the area. They may know about any recent crimes or safety concerns in the neighborhood. At Buffalo Brick & Mortar LLC, we prioritize the safety and security of our clients. We can help you find a home in a safe and secure area of Buffalo.

3. How old are the major systems and appliances in the home?

When viewing a home, it’s important to take note of the age and condition of the major systems and appliances. This includes the HVAC system, water heater, roof, and appliances like the refrigerator and dishwasher.

Knowing the age of these systems and appliances can help you estimate how much longer they will last and when you may need to replace them. This information can also be helpful when negotiating the price of the home.

At Buffalo Brick & Mortar LLC, our agents can provide you with information on the age and condition of the major systems and appliances in the home. We can also recommend trusted home inspectors who can provide a more detailed report on the condition of the home.

Buffalo winters are no joke. With heavy snowfall, freezing temperatures, and icy winds, the condition of a home’s roof and heating system can make or break your experience as a homeowner.

Why it matters: Roof replacements and furnace upgrades can be expensive. A well-maintained roof typically lasts around 20–30 years, and furnaces last around 15–20 years.
Ask the seller or agent: “When were the roof and furnace last replaced or serviced?”
Older homes in Buffalo—especially charming Victorians and classic colonials—often lack proper insulation. That can lead to high utility bills and discomfort during cold months.
Why it matters: Proper insulation improves energy efficiency and reduces heating costs.
Ask: “Has the home been updated with modern insulation? If so, when?”
From quiet, tree-lined streets in North Buffalo to the vibrant, revitalized West Side, Buffalo neighborhoods each have their own character—and quirks.

4. What is the neighborhood like?

When you buy a home, you’re not just buying the property itself – you’re also buying into the neighborhood. Before you make an offer on a home, take some time to explore the surrounding area.

What are the neighbors like? Is it a quiet or busy street? Are there any nearby amenities like parks, restaurants, or shops? Is it close to public transportation?

Your agent can provide insight into the neighborhood and help you find a home in an area that fits your lifestyle and needs. At Buffalo Brick & Mortar LLC, our agents have a deep knowledge of the local neighborhoods in Buffalo. We can help you find a home in an area that meets all of your criteria.

5. What is the history of the home?

Before you make an offer on a home, it’s important to know the history of the property. Has it been on the market for a long time? Has it had any major repairs or renovations? Has it had any previous owners?

Your agent can provide you with information on the history of the home. They can also help you obtain a copy of the property’s disclosure statement, which will provide detailed information on any known issues with the home.

At Buffalo Brick & Mortar LLC, our agents are committed to providing our clients with all of the information they need to make an informed decision. We will work with you to obtain all relevant documents and information on the history of the home.

6. What is the asking price and are there any other offers?

Finally, before you make an offer on a home, it’s important to know the asking price and whether there are any competing offers. This will help you determine whether the home is within your budget and whether you need to act quickly to secure the property.

Your agent can provide you with information on the asking price and any competing offers. They can also help you negotiate the price of the home and work with the seller to ensure that your offer is accepted.

At Buffalo Brick & Mortar LLC, our agents are skilled negotiators who can help you get the best possible price for your dream home in Buffalo. We will work with you to develop a winning offer that meets all of your needs and fits within your budget.

Finding your dream home in Buffalo can be a challenging and exciting process. By asking the right questions and working with an experienced agent at Buffalo Brick & Mortar LLC, you can ensure that you find the perfect property that fits your budget, lifestyle, and needs.

Our agents have a deep knowledge of the local real estate market in Buffalo. We understand that every client is unique, and we work with each client to understand their individual needs and preferences. Whether you are a first-time homebuyer or an experienced investor, we can help you find the perfect home.

Buffalo, NY, offers a unique housing market rich in history, charm, and opportunity—but buying here requires asking the right questions. By digging into the details and working with a knowledgeable local agent, you can avoid surprises and find a home that’s truly the right fit for your lifestyle.