Walking into your very first home tour is exciting – and a little overwhelming! With so much to take in, it’s easy to get distracted by pretty decor, fresh paint, or a stylish kitchen back-splash. But remember… you’re not buying the seller’s furniture – you’re buying the home!
To help you stay focused and confident, here’s a friendly guide to what first time home buyers should really be paying attention to during a home tour.
1. The Overall Condition of the Home 🔍
You don’t have to be a contractor to notice when something feels “off”. As you walk through:
- Look for cracks in walls or ceilings
- Check for signs of water damage
- Notice any odd smells (musty = potential moisture issues)
- Pay attention to uneven floors or doors that won’t close correctly
These won’t automatically rule out a home, but they’re worth noting and discussing with your Realtor.
2. The Age and Condition of Major Systems 🚰
The big ticket items are the ones that cost the most if they fail. During your tour, ask about:
- Roof age
- HVAC system age and recent service
- Water Heater age
- Plumbing and electrical updates
A home may look beautiful, but outdated systems can quickly turn into surprises – and expensive ones.
3. Layout and Functionality 🧱
Think beyond today. Will this home work for your lifestyle in the next few years?
Consider:
- Do you like the flow from room to room?
- Is there enough natural light?
- Are bedrooms and bathrooms located in convenient places?
- Can you picture your daily routine here?
If something feels awkward now, it may feel even more awkward once you live in it.
4. Kitchen and Bathroom Condition 🍽️
These are the most used (and most expensive to renovate) spaces.
Check for:
- Enough storage and counter space
- Water pressure in sinks and showers
- Condition of appliances
- Signs of leaks under sinks
Even small details can help you understand the home’s true value.
5. The Yard and Outdoor Space 🌳
It’s easy to overlook the outside when you’re excited about the inside, but outdoor areas matter too.
Take note of:
- Yard size and maintenance level
- Drainage issues (standing water, sloping towards house)
- Fencing, privacy and noise
- Deck or patio condition
A great outdoor space can add a lot to your enjoyment of a home!
6. The Neighborhood Vibe 🏘️
Location truly is everything. While you’re there:
- Listen for noise from roads or neighbors
- Look at the condition of nearby homes
- Notice traffic patterns
- Consider the commute you’ll actually have
- Look for nearby parks, stores or schools that matter to you
A house you love in a location you don’t…won’t stay lovable for long.
7. Storage Space (It Matters More Than You Think) 🔦
Open closets, peek into utility spaces, and look for attic or garage storage. You’ll thank yourself later – storage fills up fast!
8. Red Flags Worth Keeping In Mind 📝
Don’t panic if you see these…but definitely keep them on your checklist:
- Fresh paint covering only one spot
- Strong air fresheners (sometimes used to mask odors)
- Windows that won’t open
- Missing or outdated smoke detectors
- Soggy spots in the yard
- Signs of DIY repairs
Your Realtor and home inspector will help you evaluate everything, but noticing things early is helpful.
Final Thoughts 🤝
Your first home tour should be fun – and with the right guidance, it absolutely can be! The key is knowing what to look for and having a trusted Realtor by your side to ask questions, point out details, and help you make sense of everything you see.
If you’re just starting your home-buying journey and want expert, friendly support every step of the way, I’d love to help you find the home that feels just right for you.
Read to start touring homes? Let’s chat! 🏡💛
