What To Inspect In An Open House
It's that time of the year again. Welcome to the spring housing market 2023! If you buy a house this spring, you will be touring homes during their open houses. As a buyer, this allows you to look at every facet of the home before making an offer. But what do you need to look out for during an open house to ensure the home is perfect for you and your family? Here are some essential things you need to watch out for:
The Noise & Traffic Levels
Note the noise and traffic during the open house, and also try to visit the property at different times of the week. Drive by the property during the evening, rush hour, or a weekend afternoon to see what it is like. While traffic and noise levels are low in the morning, they may be higher than you would like at night.
Structural Issues
Significant structural issues can considerably raise the cost of owning a home. Here are the most common structural problems you should watch out for:
- Bouncy or Sloping Floors
- Cracks Above Windows or Doors
- Windows that Don't Open Easily
- Cracked Walls
Water Issues
Water issues can cause significant damage, fast! Look at exposed piping in basements or laundry rooms, and under the sinks, check for rust, water stains, or leaking. Also, keep an eye out for the following:
- Damp walls and water stains on the ceiling
- Moldy walls and paint peeling
- Bubbles or blisters on the paint
- Musty Odor
Other areas of focus:
- Condition of floor or carpets
- Condition of the appliances
- Location and number of electrical outlets
- Landscaping condition
- The structural integrity of the garage and shed
- Size and quality of windows
- Amount of storage space
Remember, a home inspector is likely to catch these issues down the line, so to save time, scan the home for warning signs as early as touring the home for the first time. This handy dandy checklist lets you know what to look for when attending open houses.
Need help figuring out where to start looking or tired of going to open houses on a that doesn't match your needs? Call our expert team now to guide you in your home-buying journey.
