Q: What does it mean if a home is on the market for a long time?

A: When shopping for homes, consider days on the market. Homes that are on the market longer than other homes in the neighborhood may indicate an issue, such as being overpriced or in inferior condition.

Always consult your real estate professional to determine a fair market value to offer for the home.

Ask your Realtor to find out whether the home had a previous contract that was terminated. He or she may be able to provide you with a recent inspection report to help you determine the condition of the home.

Always ask to see the Seller’s Disclosure statement, which will detail defective items of which the owner is aware.

Additionally, during your visit to the home, look for items that may indicate larger problems:

Dirty air filters and grills could indicate improper maintenance on the HVAC system.

Paint or caulk that is faded, worn or missing on the exterior of the home could lead to leaks and wood rot.

Missing shingles and improper flashing can result in roof leaks.

Cracks in walls and windows/doors that don’t close properly may indicate movement in the foundation..