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Open houses can be exciting—after all, you’re getting a glimpse of what could be your future home! But it’s easy to get swept up in the perfectly staged rooms, the fresh scent of cookies in the air, and the carefully curated decor. The real goal of your visit, though, is to assess the home itself—not just how good it looks, but whether it meets your needs in terms of functionality, safety, and potential maintenance issues.
To help you stay focused, here’s a home buyer’s checklist of key things to look for during an open house that might not be obvious at first glance.
1. Windows: Light, Views, and Functionality
Windows do more than let in light—they affect the mood and energy efficiency of a home. Ask yourself:
- Do they allow in natural light, or will the space feel dark during the day?
- What direction do they face? South-facing windows tend to bring in the most light.
- What’s the view? Are you looking at a peaceful backyard, or will you be waving to your neighbor every morning?
- Do they open easily? Sticky or hard-to-open windows could indicate issues with settling or maintenance.
2. Peek Under the Sink
Water damage can be sneaky, but one place it often hides is under the kitchen and bathroom sinks. Take a quick look:
- Are there signs of leaks or past water damage, like warped wood, discoloration, or mold?
- Is there a musty smell? That could indicate lingering moisture issues.
3. Electrical Outlets: Are There Enough?
Imagine setting up your living room or home office—where will your devices plug in?
- Are there enough outlets in key areas like the kitchen, living room, and bedrooms?
- Do they look modern, or will you need to update them?
- If the home is older, check if outlets are grounded (three-prong) for safety.
4. Storage Space: More Than Just Closets
Closet space is important, but also consider:
- Closet placement—is there convenient storage near the entryway, bedrooms, or laundry area?
- Kitchen storage—do the cabinets and pantry offer enough room for your needs?
- Garage or basement storage—where will holiday decorations, sports gear, or tools go?
5. Appliances: If They’re Included, Are They Functional?
If the listing mentions that appliances stay with the home, don’t assume they’re in perfect working order:
- Open the fridge—does it smell okay? (A lingering odor could be a sign it’s not well-maintained.)
- Run the dishwasher (if allowed) or check for rust and wear inside.
- Test the stove burners and oven temperature settings.
- If there’s a washer and dryer, do they look clean and in good shape?
6. Lift Up the Rugs
Decorative rugs are great, but sometimes they hide imperfections:
- Check for stains, scratches, or damage to hardwood floors underneath.
- Look for any noticeable warping or unevenness.
- If the floors are carpeted, peek under the edges—are they in good condition, or will they need replacing?
7. Are the Floors Level?
A simple trick: bring a marble or small round object with you and place it on the floor. If it consistently rolls in one direction, the floors might not be level, which could indicate foundation issues.
8. The Attic: Insulation and Ventilation Matter
If the home has an attic, take a peek:
- Is there proper insulation? A poorly insulated attic can drive up energy costs.
- Does it smell musty? That could be a sign of ventilation problems or mold.
- Any signs of past leaks or water damage on the wood or insulation?
9. Water Spouts and Drainage: Protecting the Home from Water Damage
Take a step outside and look at the gutters and downspouts:
- Are they directing water away from the foundation? Water pooling near the home can lead to costly foundation issues.
- Is there any erosion or puddling around the base of the house?
- Are gutters clear and properly maintained?
10. The Neighborhood: Beyond the House Itself
While you’re at the open house, take a few moments to observe the surroundings:
- What’s the noise level like? Can you hear traffic, planes, or noisy neighbors?
- How’s the parking situation? Is there enough space for guests or multiple cars?
- Do the surrounding homes look well-kept? That can indicate how well the neighborhood is maintained.
Final Thoughts
An open house is your opportunity to evaluate a home beyond its surface beauty. By taking the time to check these details, you’ll get a better idea of the property’s true condition and whether it’s the right fit for you.
And if you’re house-hunting in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago, I’d love to help you find the perfect home that checks all your boxes!
Looking for more home-buying tips? Stay tuned to the blog for expert advice on navigating the market with confidence.
