What questions should Tampa buyers ask before making an offer?

By Emeri & Joe Lewkowicz, The Lewkowicz Group

Buying a home in Tampa is exciting—but before you fall in love with a listing and rush to submit an offer, there are a few critical questions every buyer should ask. With Tampa’s competitive market, fast-moving inventory, and neighborhood-by-neighborhood nuances, asking the right questions can be the difference between a smart purchase and an expensive mistake.

After more than 40 years combined helping buyers, sellers, and investors across Tampa Bay, we’ve seen firsthand what separates confident buyers from those who regret their decisions later. Below are the key questions we always walk our clients through before making an offer.

1. Is the Home Priced Correctly for This Neighborhood?

One of the biggest mistakes buyers make is focusing only on the list price. Tampa is a patchwork of micro-markets—two homes a mile apart can have very different values depending on school zones, flood zones, and neighborhood demand.

We help our buyers ask:

• How does this home compare to recent sales nearby?

• Are homes in this area selling above or below the asking price?

• Is this price supported by the data—or just the seller’s expectations?
  
  

Understanding true market value gives you leverage and helps avoid overpaying.

2. How Long Has the Property Been on the Market—and Why?

Days on market tell a story. A home that just hit the market in South Tampa or Carrollwood may attract multiple offers quickly. On the other hand, a home sitting longer than average could signal pricing issues, condition concerns, or changing market dynamics.

We dig deeper by asking:

• Has the price been reduced?

• Did a previous contract fall through?

• Are there known inspection or appraisal issues?
  
  

Context matters, and this insight can strengthen your negotiation strategy.

3. What Are the True Monthly Costs Beyond the Mortgage?

Your monthly payment is more than principal and interest. Tampa buyers should factor in:

• Property taxes (which can change after purchase)

• Homeowners insurance and wind or flood insurance

• HOA or CDD fees

• Utilities and maintenance costs
  
  

As local experts, we help buyers understand what ownership really costs in each Tampa neighborhood—especially in waterfront or newer communities.

4. Are There Any Red Flags With the Property or Area?

This is where local knowledge becomes priceless. Some issues don’t show up on a listing sheet.

Buyers should ask:

• Is this home in a flood zone?

• Have there been past insurance claims?

• Are there upcoming developments that could affect value or traffic?

• How does this area perform during storms?
  
  

We live and work in Tampa, so we guide our clients through these details before they commit.

5. What Inspection and Financing Protections Should We Include?

In competitive situations, buyers sometimes feel pressured to waive protections. That can be risky.

We help buyers decide:

• Which inspections are non-negotiable?

• Should we request seller credits or repairs?

• How much earnest money is appropriate?

• What financing terms keep you competitive without overexposing you?
  
  

A strong offer isn’t just about price—it’s about smart structure.

6. How Will This Home Fit My Long-Term Goals?

Whether you’re a first-time buyer, relocating, or investing, the right question isn’t just “Do I love it?” but “Does this make sense long-term?”

We encourage buyers to consider:

• Resale potential in this area

• Rental demand and restrictions

• School zone stability

• Lifestyle changes over the next 5–10 years
  
  

Tampa’s growth is creating opportunity—but strategic thinking protects your investment.

7. What’s the Best Way to Win Without Overpaying?

This is where experience matters most. In multiple-offer situations, we help our clients win with:

• Smart pricing strategies

• Flexible terms that appeal to sellers

• Clear communication with listing agents

• Timing that works in your favor
  
  

Our job is to protect your bottom line and position you to succeed.

Final Thoughts from Emeri & Joe

Making an offer isn’t just a transaction—it’s a decision that impacts your finances, lifestyle, and future. The right questions, paired with local expertise, give buyers confidence and clarity in a fast-moving Tampa market.

At The Lewkowicz Group, we don’t believe in guesswork. We believe in informed decisions, strong advocacy, and guiding our clients every step of the way.

If you’re thinking about buying in Tampa and want answers tailored to your goals, we’re here to help.