When you're ready to begin searching for a new home, it's easy to get swept up by the process. The combination of an exciting prospect of a significant life change and the persuasive tactics of those trying to sell you that life can often lead to you leaving a property tour without any relevant information.

It's always best to come prepared with a list of questions you can ask at the open house. Here are a few of the best hard-hitting questions to help jump-start your brainstorming.

Are There Any Structural Issues with the Home?

Being caught unaware of structural issues years from now is every homeowner's nightmare. Ask this question when you view the home; the listing agent can provide you with an official seller's disclosure that should help shed some light on the home's health.

Has the Seller Made Any DIY Renovations?

DIY renovations made by the previous owners are notorious for causing problems down the line. And work that wasn't completed by a licensed professional is also much more likely to incite a code violation. You should also always schedule a professional home inspection before your closing date.

What (If Any) Updates Have Been Made in the Home Since the Seller Purchased It, and When Were They Made?

Major updates, such as ones to the electrical, roof, or siding, will give you a good idea of what will need your attention in the coming years. A home inspection should also assist with this question, and inspectors can even estimate how long some features have left before they need to be fixed or replaced.