If you’re in the market for a new home, you probably know that touring potential properties is an essential part of the process. But do you know what to look for when touring a house? How can you make the most of your time and avoid missing important details?
We’ll share some tips and tricks on how to tour a house like a pro. Whether you’re visiting in person or virtually, you’ll want to pay attention to these aspects of the home and its surroundings.
Location and neighborhood
The first, and most important, rule of real estate has not changed: location, location, location. If the home is not in the right community, near a busy highway, you can rule it out before visiting.
Before setting up a tour, it is a good idea to look at the neighborhood your desired home resides in. The neighborhood has many factors that might influence your move, including, but not limited to, commute, schools, and access to public transportation.
You can also drive or walk around the area to get a feel for the vibe and safety of the neighborhood. Don’t ignore your neighbors either. If they don’t take care of their yard and have all kinds of clutter and junk.
Layout and floor plan
Once inside a home, try everything. Follow common courtesy but don’t be shy—open and shut the cupboards, flush the toilets, and whip out the measuring tape. Pay attention to it.
You’ll want to focus on the layout and floorplan of the home and see if it works for your lifestyle. Is there enough space for your furniture and belongings? Are there enough bedrooms and bathrooms for your family? How is the flow of the rooms? Is there enough natural light?
You should also pay attention to any potential problems or issues with the structure or systems of the home. For example, look for cracks in the walls or ceilings, signs of water damage or mold, stains or odors from pets or smoking.
Condition and maintenance
Buying a home that needs major repairs – a new roof, new plumbing, new electrical panel or all of the above – might be a good move if the price is right and you have the cash for repairs. But you don’t want to think you’re buying a home in good condition and then be surprised by expensive repairs.
That’s why it’s important to ask questions about the age and condition of appliances, HVAC systems, water heaters, windows, doors, etc. Of course, you should always hire a professional home inspector to conduct a thorough examination of the property. They will be able to identify any hidden defects or hazards that may not be visible during a casual tour.
Conclusion
Touring a house is like going on a first date: It’s your chance to get a sense of whether this home is the one. But in this day and age, with so many houses to see and so little time before they get snapped up, you need to be smart and efficient with your tours.
By following these tips and tricks on what to look for when touring a house, you’ll be able to make an informed decision about whether to make an offer or move on to the next one.
Happy house hunting!
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