5 Must-Read Documents to Review Before Writing an Offer on a House

Sarah Breck
May 22
3 min read

Before you get swept away by that dreamy front porch or fully updated kitchen, there are a few critical documents every first-time buyer should review before writing an offer on a house. These documents aren't just bureaucratic red tape—they're your early warning system. Knowing what to look for can protect you from costly surprises and give you confidence as you move forward. Here's a breakdown of the five key documents to review before writing an offer on a house.

1. Property Disclosure Statement

The Property Disclosure Statement is where the seller legally outlines any known issues with the property. This can include:

Roof leaks
Foundation problems
Past flooding or water damage
Mold remediation
Broken appliances
Neighborhood disputes

Why it matters: This document helps you uncover any hidden red flags. If something is marked as "unknown," don’t hesitate to ask your agent for more information. It could be a simple oversight—or a major warning sign. In many cases, buyers renegotiate or even walk away after reviewing this form. It's your first real peek behind the curtain of the home.

2. CCRs (Covenants, Conditions & Restrictions)

If the home is in a planned community or HOA, you'll receive a document called the CCRs. These are legally binding rules that govern what you can and can’t do with your property. They might restrict:

Fence height
Parking RVs, boats, or trailers
Building sheds or adding solar panels
Running a home-based business (like daycare)
Keeping chickens or certain pets

Why it matters: CCRs can impact your daily lifestyle. If your plans include a backyard garden, a tiny house for your in-laws, or parking your camper out front—these rules could stop you. Read them early so you don’t fall in love with a home that won’t work for your lifestyle.

3. Lead-Based Paint Disclosure

For homes built before 1978, federal law requires the seller to provide a Lead-Based

Paint Disclosure. Even if they don’t know whether lead paint is present, they must inform you of the possibility.

Why it matters: Lead paint can pose serious health risks, especially for young children or pregnant individuals. If you notice chipping or peeling paint, especially around window sills or trim, consider further inspection or testing before finalizing your offer.

4. CRS Tax Data and Property Snapshot

Your agent can pull a CRS Tax Report, which provides a wealth of public data about the home. This usually includes:

Assessed property value
Annual property taxes
Square footage and bedroom count
School district info
Lot size and boundaries
Rental history (if available)

Why it matters: This report gives you a financial snapshot of the property. It helps you estimate monthly costs, compare values, and understand the local market. For example, a home with low purchase price but high property taxes might not fit your budget as well as expected.

5. GIS Map and Zoning Information

Don’t forget to check the GIS map (Geographic Information System), which shows zoning, easements, flood zones, and more. Your agent can typically access this via the local county or municipality.

Why it matters: This map can reveal major insights like:

Whether you’re near a floodplain
Future development plans nearby
Utility easements running through your yard
Zoning codes that allow or restrict specific uses

You want to know not just what's in the home—but what's around it and what could change.

Final Thoughts: Smart Buyers Review These 5 Documents Before Writing an Offer on a House

Before writing an offer on a house, reviewing these five documents will make you a more informed and confident buyer:

Property Disclosure
CCRs
Lead-Based Paint Disclosure
CRS Tax Report
GIS Map or zoning data

These aren't just forms to skim. They're powerful tools that help you make a smart investment and avoid buyer's remorse.

If you’re a first-time home buyer and want more straightforward, no-fluff guidance, check out my Ultimate Resource Hub for First-Time Buyers. It includes video tutorials, downloadable guides, and even a free one-on-one call to walk you through your next steps.