What to Expect When Viewing Homes: A Guide for Buyers

Buying a home is an exciting journey, but when it comes time to tour properties, it can feel overwhelming if you don’t know what to expect. What should you look for? What questions should you ask? How do you know if a home is right for you? This guide will walk you through what to expect when viewing homes, how to evaluate each property, and key questions to ask so you can make the best decision with confidence.

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Before the Home Tour

Before stepping foot inside a home, it is important to prepare for the process.

 

• Get pre-approved for a mortgage so you know your budget and can show sellers you are a serious buyer.

• Make a list of must-have features and separate needs from wants.

• Dress comfortably, especially if you will be viewing multiple homes in one day.

• Bring a notebook or use your phone to take notes and photos for reference later.

 

Before the tour, review the listing details and research the neighborhood online to get a feel for the area.

 

Arriving at the Property

First impressions start before walking through the door.

 

Neighborhood considerations:

• Is the home in a safe and well-kept area?

• Are there sidewalks, parks, or schools nearby?

• Do the neighbors maintain their properties? Exterior of the home:

• Does the home look well-maintained?

• Are there any obvious issues such as cracked sidewalks, peeling paint, or missing shingles?

• Check the roof, gutters, and siding for wear and tear. Driving through the neighborhood at different times of day can provide a better sense of the community.

 

Inside the Home

Once inside, take time to explore each room and consider how it fits your lifestyle.

 

Layout and space:

• Is the floor plan open or more segmented?

• Are the bedrooms large enough for your needs?

• Does the kitchen have enough counter and storage space? Potential issues:

• Check for cracks in walls or ceilings that could indicate foundation problems.

• Pay attention to musty smells that could signal mold or water damage.

• Open and close doors, turn on faucets, and test light switches to check functionality. Questions to Ask While touring, ask your real estate agent important questions about the home.

 

General questions:

• How long has the home been on the market?

• Have there been any price reductions?

 

Condition and maintenance:

• How old are the roof, HVAC system, and water heater?

• Are there any known repairs or past issues?

• Have there been any recent renovations?

 

Neighborhood and schools:

• What are the property taxes and any HOA fees?

• Are there any upcoming developments or zoning changes?

• How are the nearby schools, parks, and amenities? If the home is occupied, respect the seller’s space while making sure to get the information you need.

 

Taking Notes and Comparing Homes

When touring multiple homes, it can be difficult to remember details about each one.

 

Consider using a simple rating system for:

• Location and neighborhood

• Layout and space

• Condition and repairs needed

• Price and overall value

 

Taking pictures or videos, if allowed, can help with remembering key features. After each tour, take a few minutes to write down thoughts before moving to the next house.

 

Next Steps

After viewing homes, buyers typically have one of three reactions:

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1. The home is a perfect fit and they are ready to make an offer.

2. The home is an option, but they want to see more before making a decision.

3. The home is not a good fit and they will continue searching. If a home is a strong contender, it is important to act quickly, especially in a competitive market.

 

Final Thoughts

 

Viewing homes should be an exciting part of the home-buying process. By knowing what to expect, asking the right questions, and keeping an open mind, you will be well on your way to finding the right home. If you are ready to start touring homes, reach out for a personalized home search and professional guidance.