Buying a home is a big decision, and while a professional home inspection is always recommended, a keen eye during showings can help you spot major issues early. This allows you to save time and money by identifying red flags upfront and focusing only on homes truly worth considering before moving forward with an inspection.

Here’s a room-by-room breakdown of what to look for during a home showing, so you can confidently assess any property before making an offer.

Exterior: First Impressions & Common Issues

The exterior of a home is your first line of defense against weather and wear. Pay attention to these key areas:

• Roof Condition – Missing or curling shingles, sagging areas, and signs of water damage or sustained dampness. A worn-out roof can be expensive to replace.
• Siding & Paint – Cracks, peeling paint, and warped or damaged siding can indicate poor maintenance and potential water intrusion.
• Foundation Cracks – Small cracks are normal, but large or horizontal cracks could indicate structural issues.
• Drainage & Grading – Water should flow away from the foundation. Ensure the ground slopes away from the home, not toward it. Pooling water near the foundation can cause flooding and foundation damage.
• Windows & Doors – Check for drafts, condensation, rotting frames or other signs of moisture, as these can be costly to fix.

🚩 Major Red Flags: Large or horizontal foundation cracks, standing water near the foundation, sagging rooflines.

Basement: The Home’s Structural & Moisture Checkpoint

The basement can reveal hidden issues about the home’s foundation and moisture control. Watch for:

• Water Damage & Mold – Check for water stains, musty smells, or white mineral deposits (efflorescence) on walls—these can signal past or ongoing moisture issues.
• Cracks in Foundation Walls & Slab Floors – Small hairline cracks are common, but wide, shifting, or horizontal cracks may indicate foundation problems. Horizontal cracks represent a serious structural safety issue, and can be very expensive to rectify.
• Exposed Plumbing – Look for leaks, rust, or signs of past repairs on pipes and fixtures.
• Hot Water Tank & Furnace Age – Check the manufacture date (usually within the serial number on a sticker). Hot water tanks last ~8-12 years, while furnaces can last 15 years or more—older units may need replacing soon.

🚩 Major Red Flags: Strong musty odor, visible mold, large or horizontal foundation cracks.

Main Floor: Functional Layout & Key Issues

Inside the home, take your time evaluating the layout, finishes, and overall condition:

• Floors & Ceilings – Uneven or sagging floors could indicate structural problems, especially in newer homes. In older homes, some settling is normal.
• Walls & Paint – Cracks, stains, or bubbling paint may be signs of leaks or poor repairs.
• Windows & Natural Light – Open and close windows to check for proper sealing and smooth operation. Condensation between panes signals a failed window seal.
• Outlets & Light Fixtures – Look for missing GFCI outlets in kitchens/bathrooms.

🚩 Major Red Flags: Uneven or sloping floors, or moisture-damaged ceiling/walls.

Kitchen & Bathrooms: Plumbing & Practicality

These rooms get the most use, so check for signs of wear and plumbing issues:

• Water Pressure & Drainage – Turn on faucets and flush toilets to check for slow drainage, leaks, or weak water pressure.
• Cabinets & Under-Sink Areas – Look inside for water stains, soft wood, or signs of mold, which indicate plumbing issues.
• Appliance Condition – If included, check the age and condition of appliances. A home with old, malfunctioning appliances may require costly replacements.
• Tile & Caulking – Loose tiles or missing caulk around sinks and tubs allow moisture to seep in, leading to rot and mold.

🚩 Major Red Flags: Low water pressure, soft spots around toilets/showers, mold under sinks.

Final Walkthrough Tips: How to Make the Most of Your Showing

• Test Everything – Open and close doors/windows, run faucets, flush toilets, and test light switches.
• Listen for Noises – Strange creaks, banging pipes, or loud HVAC systems can signal underlying issues.
• Ask Questions – Don’t hesitate to ask about repairs, upgrades, or known issues.
• Trust Your Gut – If something feels off, bring in a professional before moving forward.

Final Thoughts

A home showing is more than just falling in love with the space—it’s about making sure it’s a sound investment. No home is perfect, but spotting potential issues early can help you avoid costly surprises.

Need expert guidance? Let’s schedule a showing together! I’ll help you evaluate each home so you can buy with confidence.

📞 Contact Us Today to Start Your Home Search!