Why Your Questions Matter More Than the Listing Photos

Online photos and descriptions are a starting point. Your questions are what protect your budget and your peace of mind. The right questions help you:

• Spot red flags that do not show up in pictures.
• Understand true monthly costs, including taxes and utilities.
• Compare one neighborhood to another inside Lake and Porter County.
• Negotiate repairs or price based on real information, not guesses.
• Choose a home that fits your lifestyle, commute, and school needs.

As you read, keep a running list. Bring it to your next showing in Crown Point, St. John, or Valparaiso. A good agent will welcome your questions.

1. What is the condition of the roof, HVAC, and major systems?

Lake County and Porter County winters are tough on roofs, furnaces, and air conditioners. Replacing any one of these systems can cost several thousand dollars. Ask the seller or listing agent:

• How old is the roof and what material is it?
• Has it ever leaked or been repaired?
• How old are the furnace, A/C, and water heater?
• Are there service records or warranty information?

Newer subdivisions in Crown Point may have more recently installed systems, while established areas of Merrillville or older pockets of Valparaiso might have original components. Your inspector will dig deeper, but asking up front sets better expectations.

2. Has the home ever had water in the basement?

Basement water is one of the most common issues in Northwest Indiana due to soil conditions and heavy rain. It does not automatically mean you should walk away, but you should know the history. Ask:

• Has there ever been water in the basement or crawl space?
• What repairs or drainage improvements have been made?
• Is there a sump pump, backup pump, or drainage system installed?

A small seep that was fixed years ago is different than repeated flooding. Your Realest agent can also advise you on neighborhoods in Cedar Lake and Lowell where basement moisture is more common and what typical solutions look like.

3. What are the current property taxes and will they change?

Indiana property taxes can surprise buyers who are moving from Illinois, especially if exemptions are not understood. Ask specifically:

• What were the taxes last year and are they based on an owner occupied exemption?
• Will you be eligible for the homestead exemption after closing?
• Are there any other exemptions, such as mortgage or veteran?

You or your agent can verify tax details through county resources like the Lake County property search and the Porter County property search. Knowing this ahead of time helps you build a realistic monthly budget.

4. How competitive is this neighborhood for buyers?

Some areas in Crown Point and St. John see multiple offers in the first weekend. Others move at a steady but manageable pace. Ask your agent:

• What is the average days on market in this neighborhood?
• Do homes usually sell at, above, or below list price?
• How many active buyers are currently looking in this price range?

This helps you decide how aggressive to be with your offer, and whether you may need to move quickly when the right property appears.

5. What are the local school options and boundaries?

Even if you do not have children, school districts affect resale value. Crown Point, Valparaiso, and Munster schools are frequent drivers for Illinois buyers who are relocating to Northwest Indiana. Ask:

• Which school district is this address in?
• Have there been any recent boundary changes?
• Are there magnet, private, or parochial options nearby?

You can start exploring communities known for strong schools here: Munster homes and Valparaiso homes.

6. Are there HOA fees or neighborhood rules?

Newer subdivisions in Crown Point and St. John often have homeowner associations. HOAs can be a plus if they maintain common areas and set standards that protect property values, but buyers should know the details. Ask:

• How much is the HOA fee and how often is it paid?
• What does the fee cover, such as lawn care, snow removal, or amenities?
• Are there restrictions on parking, fencing, rentals, or exterior changes?

Always request the most recent HOA bylaws and budget if possible before you close.

7. What are average utilities and maintenance costs?

Two homes with similar prices can have very different monthly costs. Older homes in Porter County may have higher heating bills than newer construction in Lake County. During your showing or inspection period, ask:

• Can the seller provide 12 months of utility averages?
• Is the home on city water and sewer, or well and septic?
• How often does the yard need regular maintenance or special care?

8. How does this location work for your daily commute and lifestyle?

Many buyers in Crown Point and nearby communities commute to Chicago or other parts of Northwest Indiana. Ask yourself and your agent:

• How far is the drive to your job during rush hour?
• Are you close to I-65, Route 41, or the South Shore Line?
• How close are grocery stores, parks, gyms, churches, and favorite restaurants?

The right location should fit both your work life and your weekend life.

9. Are there any planned developments or changes nearby?

Crown Point and St. John continue to grow. New roads, commercial projects, or subdivisions can impact your experience in both positive and negative ways. Ask:

• Are there any planned road expansions, commercial centers, or subdivisions close by?
• Has the city or town discussed zoning changes for this area?

Your Realest agent can help you research city planning resources and public records so you understand what might change in the next five to ten years.

10. What is the condition of the exterior, yard, and drainage?

The outside of the home matters just as much as the interior. In Northwest Indiana, snow, ice, and rain test exterior features. Ask:

• Is the grading sloped away from the home?
• How old are the driveway, sidewalks, and deck?
• Are there any visible cracks, settling, or standing water?

Small drainage issues can often be fixed, but it is better to know now than after your first heavy spring rain.

11. How old are the appliances and what stays?

Buyers often assume that all appliances stay with the home. In reality, it depends on what is written in the purchase agreement. Ask:

• Which appliances are included, such as refrigerator, washer, dryer, and water softener?
• How old are the major appliances?
• Have they been serviced or are any under warranty?

12. Have there been recent renovations and were permits pulled?

Updated kitchens, baths, and finished basements are attractive, but you want to know the quality behind the cosmetic finish. Ask:

• What year were the major updates completed?
• Were licensed contractors used?
• Were permits required and properly closed with the city or town?

This can matter for safety, insurance, and resale value down the road.

13. Are there any known neighborhood issues?

Every neighborhood has a personality. Some are very quiet. Some are busy and active. Some have parking, noise, or seasonal concerns. Ask your agent:

• Is on street parking common or limited?
• Are there any concerns with train noise, industrial traffic, or seasonal events?
• What do current residents love most and like least about the area?

Explore a few community profiles to compare: Schererville, Merrillville, and Dyer.

14. What is included in the sale besides the house itself?

In Northwest Indiana, items like sheds, playsets, mounted TVs, and water softeners can be a gray area. To avoid confusion, ask:

• Which items are considered real property and which are personal property?
• Will any items be removed before closing?
• Can any desired items be included or negotiated as part of the offer?

Your purchase agreement should clearly list what is included and what is not.

15. How strong is the resale potential for this home and neighborhood?

Finally, look ahead. Life changes. Even if you plan to stay for a long time, it helps to buy with resale in mind. Ask your Realest agent:

• How have prices in this neighborhood changed over the last five years?
• How many homes resell each year and how fast do they go under contract?
• Does this home have features that help resale, such as a finished basement, extra garage space, or a popular school district?

Crown Point, St. John, and many parts of Lake and Porter County have shown strong demand from both local buyers and families moving from Illinois. For a broader perspective on relocation trends, you can also read this national guide on moving from Illinois to Indiana on RealEstateUSA.com.

Related Reads

• Lake County Indiana Home Buying Checklist
• Cost of Living Comparison: Illinois vs Indiana
• Living in Crown Point Indiana: 2025 Guide