When looking at a home, it’s hard to look at it in any other context than that day. Maybe it’s sunny out, or cold and damp, and it’s easy (or hard) to imagine yourself living there. That’s all good, but it’s important to consider that that same home was probably around long before you were. That’s why a home’s listing history and property values are good to have.

Traditionally, you had to sign up with a REALTOR before you were enlightened to these data. Today, you can either ask your agent to help you with data points such as listing history, days on the market, comparative pricing, and property values over time, or you can get them by signing up at COhomefinder.  There’s no obligation, and the client care team is happy to give you as little or as much hand-holding as you want.

But where a historical perpective counts is with the property’s informal history that’s usually recorded in the memories of the neighbors and other locals. If, for example, a property was the scene of a dramatic or catastrophic incident, that’s good to know. If a history of violence or repair doesn’t bother you, you might feel fine about continuing with a thorough home inspection. If it does, however, discovering the facts well before you start losing money and paying penalties is well worth it.