When you’re at an open house, there are many things to check for and questions to ask. Here is a simple checklist on what to do at an open house.

IMPORTANT NOTES:

• Safety First. Be cautious when inspecting the property, especially in attics, basements, and crawl spaces. Watch your step and be mindful of potential hazards.
• Document. Make sure you take pictures and videos of everything and take notes. Write down key details about the property and any questions you have.

Step 1: Exterior

• Neighborhood and neighbors
  • Observe the condition of the surrounding homes.
  • Note the proximity to schools, parks, shops, and other amenities.
• Landscaping
  • Are there a lot of plants and trees that need maintenance or can be dangerous?
  • Are there any large trees too close to the house that could pose a risk to the foundation or roof?
  • Check the condition of the driveway, sidewalks, landscaping, and any visible exterior cracks or signs of poor drainage.
  • Note the condition of the landscaping.
• Grading and Drainage
  • Is water flowing away from the house? Look for pooling water or erosion.
  • Ensure the ground slopes away from the foundation to prevent water from pooling.
  • Check for proper drainage around the property.
• Siding
  • How old is the siding?
  • Is it in good condition? Inspect the siding or brick for cracks, gaps, or signs of damage.
  • Check for efflorescence (white powdery deposits) on brick, which can indicate moisture problems.
• Windows
  • How old are the windows?
  • Are they in good condition?
  • Is there flashing?
  • Are they double-paned?
• Foundation
  • Examine the foundation for cracks, bulges, or signs of settling.
  • Look for signs of water damage or insect infestation.
• Gutters
  • Are the gutters and downspouts in good condition and securely attached?
  • Are there gutter guards or leaves in the gutter?
  • Do they direct water away from the foundation?
  • Look for sagging gutters and rust stains on gutters (may indicate failing nails).
• Roof
  • How old is it?
  • What’s the condition?
  • (If safe to do so from the ground) examine the roof for missing, damaged, or curled shingles.
  • Check for sagging roof lines.
  • Look for signs of poor drainage.
  • Look for moss or algae growth (can indicate trapped moisture).
  • Check the condition of flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights.
  • When was last serviced?
•  Attached Structures
  • If there’s a deck, porch, or garage, inspect these structures for stability, signs of rot, and overall condition.

Step 2: Interior

• Remodeling
  • When did they remodel?
  • What did they remodel?
  • Who did the remodeling work?
• Layout
  • Is it bright and airy and spacious?
  • Note the size and layout of the bedrooms. Are there enough closets and storage space?
  • Assess the size and layout of the living room, dining room, and any other living areas.
  • Pay attention to the flow of the space and how it might be used.
•  Smell
  • Does it smell fresh and clean?
  • Are there any unusual odors?
• Flooring
  • What kind of floors is it?
  • Check for water damage, warping, unevenness, or creaking.
  • Check for sound proofing between floors.
• Walls and ceiling
  • Look for cracks, water stains or damage, or uneven surfaces on walls and ceilings.
• Doors
  • Open all the doors.
  • Check for smooth operation, drafts, and the condition of weatherstripping.
• Windows
  • Open and close EVERY window.
  • Do they operate smoothly? Are there any sticking points, broken sash cords, or damaged frames?
  • Check each window for drafts. Feel around the edges for air leaks, even with the window closed.
  • Inspect the condition of caulking and weatherstripping.
  • Look for cracks, gaps, or signs of deterioration.
  • Examine the glass for cracks or fogging (between panes).
  • Open and close all windows.
  • Open all the blinds.
  • Check for water damage and warping.
•  Lighting
  • Try out all the light switches.
•  Kitchen
  • Inspect the appliances (oven, refrigerator, dishwasher, microwave). Do they appear to be in good working order?
  • Inspect all the cabinet drawers. Check the condition of the cabinets and countertops. Look for signs of water damage or wear and tear.
  • Check the fume hood.
  • Turn on the faucets and check the water pressure. Is it strong and consistent?
  • Run the hot water in the sink. How long does it take to get hot? Note the temperature – is it truly hot, or just lukewarm?
  • Check the drainage. Does the water drain quickly and completely?
  • Check under the kitchen sink.
• Bathroom sinks and showers
  • Turn on all faucets (hot and cold) and check the water pressure in all sinks and showers.
  • Determine how long the hot water takes in all the sinks and showers.
  • Check under all the sinks for water and mold damage.
  • Check the drainage in the sinks and showers/tubs. Does the water drain quickly and completely?
• Toilets
  • Flush all the toilets. Do they flush properly and refill completely?
  • Inspect the toilets for leaks or signs of damage.
• Sound insulation
  • Determine how the sound insulation is between floors and between rooms.
• Heating / Cooling
  • Note the type of heating and cooling system (e.g., furnace, boiler, heat pump, central air conditioning).
  • Check the age and condition of the equipment.
    • How old is it?
    • What condition is it in?
  • When was it last cleaned and serviced?
    • If possible, ask about the system’s maintenance history.
• Water heater
  • How old is it?
  • When was it last serviced?
  • Check the water heater for age and condition.
• Plumbing
  • What kind of pipes does it have? Note the type of plumbing pipes (e.g., copper, galvanized steel, PVC).
  • Look for any signs of leaks or corrosion.
• Electrical panel and outlets
  • Check and test all the electrical outlets.
  • Note the type of wiring (e.g., knob-and-tube, aluminum).
  • Check the electrical panel for any signs of overloading or outdated components.
  • Is the electrical panel labeled?
• Cellular reception
  • How is the cellphone reception service?
• Basement/Crawl Space
  • If accessible, carefully inspect the basement or crawl space.
  • Look for signs of water damage or leaks, cracks in the foundation walls, mold or mildew, pest infestation, and insulation and ventilation.
• Attic
  • If accessible and safe, inspect the attic.
  • Look for adequate insulation, proper ventilation, signs of leaks or water damage, and pest infestation.

Step 3: Questions to ask

• Inquire about the age of the house, any recent renovations or upgrades, and any known issues.
  • Inquire about any recent repairs or inspections done on the house.
  • Ask for copies of any available inspection reports or disclosures.
    • Any recent work, repairs, or updates on the house?
  • Are there any known issues with the property?
• Why is the owner selling?
• What are the property taxes and HOA fees?
• Are there any special assessments or other fees associated with the property?
• What are the internet options?
• What is the neighborhood like?
  • What are the schools like?
  • What are the nearby grocery stores?
  • What are the nearby gyms?
  • What are the nearby transportation?

Step 4: Imagine

• Try to visualize yourself living in the house.
• Consider how the space would work for your lifestyle and needs.

Lastly, if you’re serious about buying the property, be sure to schedule a professional inspection and sewer scope before making an offer.