Dear Olivia,
I’m thinking about looking for a new home, but before I do, what should I look for when I go on showings?
Sincerely,
Ready to Look
When you walk into a home, it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of big windows, stylish finishes, and charming curb appeal. But showings are your chance to look past the surface and make sure the house will truly work for you long after move-in day. I always tell my buyers that this is where you shift from “touring a pretty space” to “evaluating a major investment.” A little intention now saves you a lot of stress later.
Layout and Functionality
The flow of a home affects your daily life more than almost anything else, so pay close attention to how the spaces connect. Does the kitchen open to the living area the way you prefer? Are the bedrooms in the right part of the house for your lifestyle? Look for bottlenecks, awkward door placements, or rooms that feel unusable. Trends come and go, but a functional layout never goes out of style, and it’s far more expensive to fix than flooring or paint.
Condition of Major Systems
Pretty countertops won’t matter if the HVAC fails a month after closing. Use showings to get a first impression of the home’s big-ticket components: the roof, the furnace or heat pump, the water heater, and the electrical panel. You’re not expected to be a contractor, but you can note age, visible wear, and anything that looks neglected. These details help you estimate upcoming maintenance costs and give you good questions to bring up during inspections.
Signs of Water Issues
Water is a home’s biggest enemy, and even small issues can become costly if ignored. Look for stains on ceilings or around windows, musty smells in the basement, discoloration under sinks, or warped flooring. These often signal leaks or moisture problems. Pay close attention to the foundation and exterior grading as well. A home doesn’t have to be perfect, but you need to know if you’re inheriting a problem.
Neighborhood and Noise
Remember, you’re not just buying a house, you’re buying the environment around it. Step outside and listen. Is there traffic noise? Are you near a commercial area? How does the street feel? Check parking availability, road conditions, and overall upkeep of nearby homes. If possible, swing by again at a different time of day. A great home in an incompatible location will never feel quite right.
If you approach showings with intention and curiosity, you’ll walk away with the clarity you need to make a confident decision. And if you ever want someone to walk a property with you and point out what matters, I’m here to help! Contact me anytime with questions at 307-856-3999!
~Olivia