Attending an open house is an exciting step in the home-buying journey. It’s your chance to explore a property beyond the online listing and get a real feel for whether it could be your future home. But while it’s easy to focus on the kitchen finishes or backyard size, it’s just as important to look deeper for potential issues or hidden costs.

To help you make the most of your visit, here’s a buyer’s checklist of what to look for during an open house.

1. First Impressions: The Exterior & Curb Appeal

✅ Check the roof – Look for missing shingles, sagging areas, or signs of wear. A new roof is a big investment, so this is worth noting.
✅ Inspect the siding & paint – Cracks, peeling paint, or mold can signal maintenance issues.
✅ Check for foundation cracks – Small hairline cracks are normal, but large cracks or uneven ground could indicate serious structural problems.
✅ Look at the landscaping – Overgrown trees or pooling water near the foundation could lead to future issues.

2. Entry & Living Spaces: First Steps Inside

✅ Check for odors – Musty smells could indicate mold or water damage, while strong air fresheners may be covering something up.
✅ Look at the ceilings – Stains or discoloration could be a sign of past leaks.
✅ Test the floors – Do they feel uneven or creaky? This could signal foundation issues or poor construction.
✅ Check natural light – Open curtains and see how much natural light the home gets at different times of the day.

3. Kitchen: The Heart of the Home

✅ Inspect cabinets & drawers – Do they open and close smoothly? Soft-close hinges are a nice bonus.
✅ Look under the sink – Any signs of leaks, water damage, or mold could be red flags.
✅ Check appliance age & condition – Ask if major appliances (stove, fridge, dishwasher) are included and how old they are.
✅ Assess counter space & storage – Make sure there’s enough room for your cooking habits and kitchen essentials.

4. Bathrooms: Hidden Issues to Watch For

✅ Run the faucets & flush toilets – Low water pressure or slow drains could indicate plumbing issues.
✅ Check for water stains – Look around the base of toilets and tubs for signs of past leaks.
✅ Look for ventilation – A properly vented bathroom prevents mold and mildew.
✅ Inspect tile grout & caulk – Cracked grout or missing caulk can be signs of neglected maintenance.

5. Bedrooms: Comfort & Practicality

✅ Assess the size – Will your furniture fit comfortably? Bring measurements if needed.
✅ Check closet space – Is there enough storage for your needs?
✅ Look at window placement – Will the room get good natural light or too much early morning sun?

6. Basement & Attic: The Hidden Story

✅ Look for water damage – Damp smells, stains, or a sump pump in constant use could be warning signs of flooding issues.
✅ Check insulation – A well-insulated attic helps with energy efficiency and reduces heating/cooling costs.
✅ Inspect the electrical panel – If it looks outdated or messy, an upgrade may be needed.

7. Systems & Structure: What’s Under the Hood?

✅ Ask about the HVAC system – How old is the furnace and AC? Are they well-maintained?
✅ Check the water heater – A water heater over 10 years old may need replacing soon.
✅ Look at electrical outlets – Are there enough outlets in each room? Do they include modern three-prong grounding?
✅ Ask about insulation & windows – Well-insulated homes with energy-efficient windows can save you money on utilities.

8. Neighborhood & Surroundings: Beyond the House

✅ Listen for noise – Are there loud neighbors, barking dogs, or heavy traffic?
✅ Check parking availability – If there’s no garage, is street parking convenient and safe?
✅ Look at nearby homes – Are other houses well-maintained? A well-kept neighborhood signals pride of ownership.
✅ Drive the area at different times – Visit in the evening to check for safety and street activity.

9. Ask the Right Questions

📌 How long has the home been on the market?
📌 Have there been any recent repairs or renovations?
📌 What’s included in the sale? (Appliances, window treatments, etc.)
📌 What are the average utility costs?
📌 Are there HOA fees, and what do they cover?

Final Thoughts

An open house is your opportunity to look beyond surface-level appeal and identify potential concerns before making an offer. By following this checklist, you’ll be better prepared to make an informed decision and avoid costly surprises later.

Thinking about buying a home and need expert guidance? Let’s connect! I’d love to help you find the right home with confidence.