Whether you are a buyer or seller, this is important to know! As a seller, you will want to know what potential buyers are looking for when they view your home. As a buyer, you will want to know what you should be looking for when viewing a home.
Aside from your home must haves like number of bedrooms, number of bathrooms and storage, land, etc., as you view properties, you want to know exactly what you are buying, before you buy it. We’ve compiled some of the top things to look for during your viewing and are always here to guide you through each showing.
Roof Condition
You can tell a lot about a home by its roof. Be sure to ask the right questions - how old is the roof, when was it installed, and what was the approximate quoted lifespan? Look for any peeling edges or cracks on wood shake roofing, chips or fractures on slate, and curling edges or uneven lines for asphalt roofing. These are indicators that the roof might need to be replaced sooner than later. Don’t forget to look at the flashing where applicable as well, as this portion of the roof installation aides with keeping moisture out of the home.
Foundation and Home Exterior
Some cracks or signs of wear are normal, especially in older homes. Diagonal, slanted, or longer fractures can signify structural issues or a shifting foundation. Talk to a trusted home inspector if you’re unsure about the extent of these findings.
Bouncy, sagging, or slanted floors can be indicators of pest problems, water damage, or foundational issues.
Lumps or bubbling walls - uneven patches or lumpy texture on walls can be signs of damage or plumbing issues.
Stains or freshly painted patches - look for stains or marks on walls that could point to water damage - sometimes these get covered up with a coat of paint.
Sloping or uneven patches in the yard - if there are unexplained wet or dry patches in the yard, this can indicate problems with the plumbing or underground sewage systems.
Gutters and drainage - ask about when the gutters were last replaced and notice which way the yard slopes for running or pooling water concerns.
Reliable HVAC, Plumbing and Electrical Systems
These are essential home systems, and you want to ensure they are in good working order. Turn on the water taps and flush the toilet - check the water colour, pressure and how long it takes to heat up. Check out the electrical systems, you are looking for how many light switches and sockets are in each room. See if the lights flicker when turned on or if they make noise when in use.
Appliances
Confirm which appliances are included with the sale of the home, when they were last replaced and their age if not purchased new. Be sure to turn them on and off to see if they work.
Use Your Senses
Aside from sight, smells can be a sign of more serious underlying issues. Mildew or mold can be easier to smell than to see, and toxic mold can be a costly hazard. Don’t forget to check the attic, basement/crawlspace and closets for musty smells, and to ensure they don’t seem damp. What are potential noises in the neighbourhood? Consider train tracks, traffic flow and insulation in the home to help block outside noise.
As you can see, there is lots to consider when viewing a home. Having a trusted and experienced real estate agent with you on your home buying and selling journey is crucial. They will guide you through the process, so you don’t miss anything and are well informed before you purchase a home. We can be by your side on your journey, do not hesitate to reach out!
𝙎𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙯 𝙍𝙚𝙖𝙡 𝙀𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙩𝙚 𝙂𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙥
RE/MAX Shuswap
📞 250.833.2184
www.craigshantz.com
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