Home Buying Tours: What To Do
The home tour is one of the most important parts of a home-buying journey. During a tour, the description of the home and the pictures you have seen come to life. While exciting, it is critical you know what to do as you make your way around the property. Learn about some of the things you should focus on and remember.
Cameras
The owners might not be home, but you may not be alone. Often, the buyers' agent is at the property, or the owners have cameras, some of which might be hidden. If you make negative comments about the property or do anything you were instructed not to do, these actions may be used against you during the offer phase.
Personal Belongings
Be prepared to look beyond the owners' belongings. You are purchasing the home, not their style aesthetic. All these features can and will be updated, from the living room couch to the kitchen paint to the showerhead in the primary bath. Pay more attention to the stricture and floorplan of the home to determine if it is the right match.
Neighborhood and Community
Dedicate some time during the tour to look at the outside. Sure, you will live inside the home, but you will be a part of the neighborhood and community, so you need to ensure it is the right fit. Arrive a few minutes early so you can look around and come back and visit during the evening or on the weekend to get an even better feel for the area.
Day-One Work
Look around and see if you spot any issues requiring day-one work. These maintenance issues typically must be addressed early in the ownership process because they are already in disarray. A lawn in poor condition, severely stained carpet, and loose stair railing are just some issues that might need to be addressed early. Develop a mental budget of how much these fixes might cost to determine if you are comfortable moving forward.
Smells
Use your nose to help spot potential problems the homeowner may not have addressed. For example, if you detect a must-like odor, it is likely that water damage and mold are an issue. The smell of pet urine or cigarettes is equally concerning. If you smell anything, be sure to notify your realtor to have it investigated.
Speak with your real estate agent for further tips on preparing for the home tour and any additional questions you might have. For more information on residential real estate, contact a professional near you.