Quality Real Estate Agents

[Chris Lombardi]

Hey Guys,

I'm looking to invest in a multi family property and live in one of the units while renting out the other.  My price point is pretty low and I'm looking around the Jersey City area - needless to say, many of the places I'm looking at have numerous problems.

I finally came across a place the other day that looked in good condition in a safe neighborhood.  The place has existing tenants and needs flood insurance so I sent my realestate agent the following questions:

1) How many flood claims occurred in the last 10 years?

2) Was the foundation and structure updated recently and when? (needed for flood insurance quote)

3) What is the elevation of the foundation?

4) Any information on the tenants - do they pay rent on time, were they vetted, do they cause trouble?

She responded by saying that these are not typically questions we get answered until after we close, but I feel like I need answers to them before I make an offer.

Is this reasonable?  I'm wondering if I should find a new real estate agent or if this is common place.  Let me know what you guys think and if there are any other questions about flood insurance or existing tenants I should be asking.