What to Look at When Viewing a House?

A thorough house viewing is a fundamental step for any potential homebuyer. It allows for a firsthand assessment of a property’s true condition, moving beyond online photos and virtual tours. This direct inspection provides a deeper understanding of the home’s maintenance requirements and suitability for your needs. A physical viewing helps instill confidence in a significant financial decision, offering peace of mind by confirming the property aligns with expectations. It also provides an opportunity to experience the home’s ambiance and layout.

Assessing the Exterior

The exterior of a house offers initial insights into its overall health and potential future costs. Begin by examining the roof, looking for missing, curled, or damaged shingles. Observe the gutters and downspouts for proper attachment and signs of blockage or overflow, as effective water diversion away from the foundation is paramount.

Next, inspect the foundation and structure. Look for significant cracks, especially horizontal or stair-step cracks, which could suggest foundational movement. Bowing or leaning walls are serious structural concerns that typically require extensive repairs. Uneven lines in the roof or walls also warrant further investigation.

Inspect the siding and paint for signs of wear, rot, or peeling. For wood siding, note any soft spots or bubbling paint. Brick exteriors should be checked for crumbling mortar or efflorescence. These issues can lead to ongoing maintenance expenses.

Proper drainage and landscaping are important for protecting the home’s foundation. Observe the grading around the house to ensure the ground slopes away from the structure, directing rainwater effectively. Poor grading can lead to water pooling near the foundation. Large trees should be assessed for their proximity to the house and foundation, as roots can cause damage, and overhanging branches may pose a falling hazard.

Finally, check the condition of exterior windows and doors. Look for signs of rot in wooden frames, cracked panes, or compromised seals. Ensure that windows and doors close securely and operate smoothly, as replacements or repairs can be a notable expense. These exterior observations provide a preliminary financial picture of the home’s upkeep.

Inspecting the Interior Spaces

Moving inside, inspect the condition of walls, ceilings, and floors. Look for cracks, water stains, or peeling paint on walls and ceilings, which can indicate underlying issues like leaks or structural stress. Sagging ceilings might suggest moisture damage or structural problems.

On the floors, check for unevenness, damage, or excessive wear. Listen for squeaking when walking, as this may point to subfloor issues. Assess the overall layout and flow of the home for practicality. Consider room sizes and how spaces connect, imagining your furniture placement.

Natural light and ventilation are important for comfort and energy efficiency. Observe the amount of natural light each room receives. In bathrooms and kitchens, verify the presence and functionality of exhaust fans to ensure proper ventilation, which helps prevent moisture buildup and mold growth.

Look for visual cues of pest infestations or past water damage. Check for droppings, gnaw marks, or unusual odors. Musty odors or discoloration on surfaces can indicate previous water damage. Addressing these issues can involve significant remediation costs.

Assess the available storage space. Consider the size and number of closets, pantry areas, and other built-in storage solutions. Insufficient storage can lead to clutter or the need for external storage. These interior observations contribute to understanding the home’s livability and potential financial implications.

Evaluating Major Systems

A home’s major systems are the operational backbone, and their condition directly impacts comfort, safety, and long-term expenses. Start with the Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system. Note the age and visible condition of the furnace and AC compressor units. Older systems may be less efficient and closer to needing replacement, which can be a significant expense. Listen for unusual noises during operation, such as grinding or loud humming.

Next, examine the plumbing system. Test water pressure by turning on multiple faucets simultaneously. Look under sinks for signs of active leaks, water stains, or corrosion on pipes. Inspect the water heater for its age and any signs of rust or leaks around its base. A failing water heater can cause significant water damage and replacement costs.

Inspect the electrical system. Locate the electrical panel and check for clear labeling of circuit breakers. Look for scorch marks or burning smells around outlets and switches. Test a few outlets and light switches in each room to ensure they are functional. Note the number and placement of outlets, as insufficient outlets might require an electrician to add more.

If major appliances are included, briefly check their visible condition and basic functionality. Turn on stove burners, open the refrigerator, and check if the dishwasher and washing machine power on. A quick check can reveal obvious defects, potentially saving you from immediate replacement costs. These system checks are fundamental to understanding a home’s operational health and future financial outlays.

Reviewing Special Areas and Surroundings

Beyond the main living spaces, certain areas and the immediate surroundings offer specific insights into a property’s condition and value. In the basement or crawl space, look for signs of moisture, such as water stains, efflorescence, or a musty odor. Check for visible structural issues in exposed beams or support columns, like cracks or bowing. Ensure these areas are generally clean.

Ascend to the attic to observe insulation levels. Look for signs of leaks on the underside of the roof sheathing, such as water stains or rot. Verify that the attic has adequate ventilation to prevent heat and moisture buildup.

Inspect the garage. Check the integrity of the walls, floor, and ceiling for cracks or water damage. Assess its storage potential. Test the functionality of the garage door opener, as repairs or replacements can be unexpected expenses.

Consider the immediate neighborhood and surroundings, as these factors influence daily life and property value. Observe street noise levels and traffic patterns. Note the proximity to amenities like parks, schools, and shops. The general upkeep of neighboring properties can also provide an indication of community standards.

Inspect exterior features such as decks, patios, or fences. Check decks and patios for structural stability, rotting wood, or cracked surfaces. Ensure fences are upright and well-maintained. These features can require maintenance or replacement, adding to the overall cost of homeownership.