The 5 Questions That Expose Bad Listing Agents (And Bad Houses): Your Town-by-Town Interrogation Guide

Generic questions get generic answers. Ask five hyper-specific, town-aware questions tailored to local regulations and known issues, and listing agents either reveal truth or expose themselves as unprepared.

First-time buyers and anyone making an offer in the next 30 days in Greater Boston.

• •Failed septic systems: Ask about Title V inspection dates before negotiating
• •Historical commissions block renovations in 23+ towns—ask upfront
• •School district boundaries vary wildly within towns, affecting $200K+ in value
• •Lead paint (pre-1978) and radon issues require specific documentation questions
• •Good agents answer confidently; bad agents get defensive or vague