Contract before offer???

[Clifton Burse]

I just got a call from a home owner who has a vacant house in my area, I dont know what to offer her yet but I want to try to get it under contact so we can do a walk through and try to find out the best offer to submit.. Is there a contact that does not have the offer in it but just says I want to inspect the house so I can come up with a offer???? :idea:

[Andy J.]

If you just want to do a walkthrough, you don't need a contract. Just call up the seller and tell them "I'd like to come out and have a look so I can make you an offer". If the house needs some work and you're not familiar with repair costs then call up a local general contractor and bring them with when you go.

If you want to do a formal inspection with a certified and experienced home inspector, you don't technically need a contract (just the homeowner's permission). However, it would be a good idea to have the property under contract before spending money on a home inspection.