What To Look For When Previewing Homes

[Rick Howell]

Homes for sale that look great can make it very hard to use a critical eye when looking at them. Buyers often lose sight of the fact that there might be structural problems or defects that they will have to contend with later.

To avoid falling into this trap have a good idea of exactly what you should be looking for before entering the home. Determine on your own, with your family or with someone you trust which elements of the home each of you will check out during the tour and stick with the plan no matter how terrific the home looks to the naked eye.

All homes are complex no matter how big or small, old or new. There are internal heating and cooling systems, electrical components, hot water heater, plumbing fixtures and a myriad of other issues that are hard to assess for the average home buyer.

Realize that you are not going to catch every single flaw or defect on your first run through a home, although there are a few key areas that every home buyer should look at before making a decision. Once you have decided on a home you will also want a professional home inspector to conduct a more thorough review of the home.

Below are the most crucial areas of a home that you should look at, should ask questions about and review critically on your first visit to a home.

Interior

1. Windows, doors and door frames
2. Ceilings
3. Flooring
4. Fireplace
5. Basement
6. Attic
7. Cabinets and counters

Exterior

1. Color and quality
2. Porch and desk
3. Maintenance
4. Gutters and roof
5. Foundation
6. Doors and windows

Surroundings

1. Driveways and walkways
2. Views and boundaries
3. Bushes, trees and grass
4. Neighboring homes and how they are kept and maintained