What to Look for During Open Houses
Buying a home is an exciting and significant milestone, but it can also be filled with uncertainty and stress, especially for those navigating open houses and property viewings for the first time. To help you make informed decisions and keep track of your options, we’ve created a comprehensive checklist for what to look for during open houses and how to effectively evaluate a potential home.
This guide is designed to be downloadable and easy to use on the go, ensuring you have all the information you need right at your fingertips.
Essential Home Buying Checklist
- Structural Integrity and Exterior Evaluation
Foundation: Check for cracks or signs of structural movement. Look around the base of the home and inside the basement for any signs of water damage or leaks.
Roof: Ask about the age of the roof and visually inspect for damaged or missing shingles.
Exterior Walls: Look for cracks or decay in the stucco or paint. Check for damp spots which indicate a broken down-pipe or gutter.
Windows and Doors: Ensure they open and close smoothly and don’t have cracked panes or rotten frames. - Interior Condition
General Layout: Does the flow of the rooms work for your lifestyle? Are there enough bedrooms and bathrooms?
Walls and Ceilings: Check for cracks, water stains, or recent patches.
Floors: Listen for squeaks, look for warping or damage, especially under carpets which might hide issues.
Lighting and Electrical: Test light switches and observe the placement and number of electrical outlets. - Plumbing, Heating, and Cooling
Plumbing: Check water pressure by running sinks and showers. Look under sinks for leaks and inspect for water damage.
Heating and Cooling: Verify the age and condition of the furnace and air conditioning unit. Ask when they were last serviced. - Property Size and Layout
Lot Size: Confirm boundaries and check for proper drainage. Assess the condition and potential maintenance needs of any landscaping.
Orientation: Note the direction the house faces; this affects natural light and heating/cooling efficiency. - Location and Neighbourhood
Community: Consider the vibe of the neighbourhood. Is it quiet? Is there a lot of traffic?
Proximity: How close are schools, hospitals, grocery stores, and other amenities?
Zoning and Development: Check local zoning laws and any upcoming development plans that might affect the property. - Additional Checks
Storage Space: Are there enough closets and storage areas?
Parking: Is there adequate and convenient parking? Check the condition of the driveway and garage.
Noise Levels: Visit at different times of the day to assess noise levels and activity. - Future Potential
Expansion Possibilities: Is there room or potential for extensions or renovations if needed in the future?
Resale Value: Consider factors that might impact future resale value, such as location, lot size, and overall condition.
Buying Checklist Conclusion
Use this checklist as your guide during open houses to methodically evaluate each property and compare potential homes. It’s designed to help you spot potential problems and assess each home’s suitability for your needs, ensuring that you make a well-informed decision. Remember, taking notes and even photos (where allowed) can help you keep track of what you’ve seen, especially when viewing multiple properties in a day.
Downloading this checklist will provide you with a practical tool to navigate the complexity of buying a home, making the process smoother and more efficient.
