If you’re looking to buy a home, you will want to see it before buying. You might be tempted to skip the tour and take the seller’s word that everything is in good condition, but this isn’t a good idea. A quick walkthrough of a house can tell you a lot about its condition—or lack thereof—and give you an idea of whether it will be worthwhile. Before buying a house, take a tour to see what the house looks like in its current state.
Here are some items to look for on your tour:
Things to look for when touring a home
- The location.
- The number of bedrooms.
- The number of bathrooms.
- The size of the kitchen.
- How much yard space is there?
- Is it close to shopping and good schools?
You must also check out the neighborhood and look at all areas of the house.
- Is this a friendly neighborhood where people look out for each other, or does it seem isolated and lonely?
- Are there nearby schools for your kids (if you have them)? Also, what are your schools’ ratings, and how do parents and students feel about them?
- How close is the home to public transportation, work, school, shopping, and other places you regularly visit?
- What type of neighbors do you have?
- Is the home in good structural condition?
- Does the home have enough space for your family, including any pets?
- Do you like the layout of the home?
- Is there room to expand if you outgrow the house?
- Do you like where the home is located?
- What about safety concerns around the home and neighborhood?
Now that you have a list of the things to look for when touring a home let’s take a moment to talk about what each of these elements means.
I’m going to start with the location because it’s important to understand where the house is situated within its neighborhood. Ideally, it will be close enough for anyone in your family who walks or bikes. If not, make sure there are sidewalks on nearby streets, which are relatively quiet with cars (and therefore dangerous).
Also, make sure they are close when driving out of town or onto highways/interstates. Finally, check whether any attractions are near the house, like shopping centers or parks. You want something close by and easy access back home if necessary!
Final Thoughts
You’re not just buying a house, you’re buying a piece of your life. Keeping a clear head and having the right checklist will give you an accurate picture of the home. Also, make sure you research the area and the house to know exactly what you’re getting into.