Buying a home is a big decision; touring homes is an essential yet exciting part of that process. It’s the best time to get a feel for the home and identify potential issues before making an offer. But with so much to consider, it can be easy to overlook important details during a home tour. That’s why knowing what to look for and what questions to ask is essential. This article will explore some of the most important things to look for when touring homes. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned pro, these tips will help you make a more informed decision and find your dream home!

#1 : Location
When looking for your dream home, location is the first on your list of requirements. And it should be there when you’re checking out the house. Believe it or not, the sole location of a home can have a massive impact on your quality of life, not to mention the property’s value.

So, when touring a home, look out for the nearby amenities. Is there a store nearby? What about a hospital? Moreover, pay attention to the noise level in the area. A lot of traffic in the streets, trains, or nightclubs nearby can make much noise when resting during the day or night. Finally, make sure the neighborhoods feel safe to you. On your way to the home, check if all the street lights work or if there are any abandoned buildings nearby.

#2 : Curb Appeal

The next thing you want to look for when touring homes is the outside of the house. Curb appeal will significantly impact your first impression, but it will also affect the value of a home.

For example, take note of the landscaping, including the lawn, trees, and shrubs. Look for signs of wear and tear on the home’s exterior, such as chipped or peeling paint, cracked windows, or damaged siding. Don’t forget to pay special attention to the front door, as it’s the focal point of the home’s exterior. Look for a well-maintained, clean, and inviting entryway.

However, remember that a fresh coat of paint or new hardware can also make a big difference. If you don’t mind a fixer-upper to flip, this could be less important than some other things.

#3 : Layout & Flow

Once you enter the home, pay close attention to the layout and the flow of the home. That can have a huge impact on the functionality and livability of a property. So, check the size and shape of each room and consider what you would use each room for. Is it big enough for all your furniture? Then, consider the traffic flow in the home, including how people move through the space. If you can’t draw a plan of the home after you’ve finished seeing it, you probably didn’t pay enough attention.

Once you buy a home, the layout and flow will be huge on a moving day. They’ll determine how fast you can unload everything and put it in its place. If the flow is bad and you’re looking at a whole day’s worth of unloading furniture, you should consider buying some things to keep handy, like snacks, water, and medicine.

#4 : Structural Issues

Structural issues are a significant concern. As they can be costly to repair and may pose safety risks, you must not miss any signs when touring homes. While it might seem strange to ask to see the home’s foundation, you must check for any cracks in it. Remember that uneven floors or walls can also indicate foundation issues. While home inspectors should be the ones to check for all the details about the home’s structure and potential issues, you should still try to get as much of this information as possible. If you see a crack in the wall or signs of damage on doors and windows, note it for later.

#5 : Water Damage

Just like structural issues, water damage can be a serious issue. So, look for water stains on ceilings, walls, and floors while touring homes. These can indicate past or current water damage. Similarly, take note of any musty or damp odors in the home, particularly in basements, bathrooms, or other areas with high humidity. When staging a home, sellers might mask the smell with air fresheners or hide wet spots by rearranging furniture. If anything seems off, don’t be afraid to ask.

While looking at the flooring of various rooms, check for any warped or buckled wood floors, as this can be a sign of water damage. And, while you’re touring the outside of the home, look for roof damage since it can lead to leaks.

#6 : Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency is becoming an increasingly important consideration for many homebuyers, as it can help reduce utility costs and minimize your carbon footprint. There are no downsides to opting for energy-efficient options.

For starters, check the level of insulation in the attic, walls, and floors. Good insulation can help keep a home comfortable and reduce energy usage. Similarly, look for energy-efficient windows and doors, which can help keep the home insulated and minimize energy loss. Moreover, evaluate the heating and cooling systems in the house.

#7 : Storage Space

Storage space is crucial in keeping a home organized and free of clutter. When touring homes, check and note the size and number of closets in each room. Do the same thing with cabinets and drawers in the kitchen, bathrooms, and other areas of the home.

Check their sizes and configurations if the home has an attic, basement, or garage (or all three). Consider if they’re large enough to fit your needs.

#8 : Natural Light

Finally, natural light is the last thing to look for when touring homes. It might seem strange, but natural light is essential since it can enhance a home’s overall look and feel while providing health benefits. To get the most natural light, you should look for homes with large windows to allow natural light to flow in. Or, look for windows placed to take advantage of natural light throughout the day. Remember to consider the home’s orientation and how it affects natural light.

In Conclusion
In conclusion, touring homes can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience, especially for first-time homebuyers. By knowing what to look for when touring homes, you’ll be able to ensure that the home you choose meets your needs. Finally, take your time, and don’t hesitate to ask questions if you’re uncertain about any aspect of the property. Good luck!

8 Things to Look for When Touring Homes by Sally Norton