Experience Properties In Person
Home showings are your opportunity to evaluate properties beyond photos and descriptions. Learn how to make the most of every showing and what to look for.
What to Look For During Showings
Go beyond the staging and really evaluate each property
Structure & Foundation
- Cracks in walls or ceilings
- Uneven floors
- Doors that don't close properly
- Signs of water damage
Systems
- Age of HVAC, water heater, roof
- Electrical panel condition
- Plumbing water pressure
- Insulation quality
Layout & Flow
- Room sizes vs. your furniture
- Natural light
- Storage space
- Traffic flow between rooms
Exterior
- Roof condition
- Siding and trim
- Drainage away from foundation
- Driveway and walkways
Questions to Ask
Don't be shy about asking questions! The more you know about a property before making an offer, the better decisions you can make. I'll help you gather this information during showings.
Pro Tip: Bring a notebook or use your phone to take notes. After viewing multiple homes, details can blur together.
Key Questions Checklist
- 1How long has the home been on the market?
- 2Have there been any offers?
- 3What's included in the sale?
- 4What are the average utility costs?
- 5Are there any known issues with the property?
- 6How old are major systems (roof, HVAC, water heater)?
- 7What are the neighbors like?
- 8Is the neighborhood noisy?
- 9Are there any HOA restrictions?
Red Flags to Watch For
These warning signs don't always mean problems, but they're worth investigating
Fresh paint in isolated areas
May be covering water stains or damage
Strong air fresheners
Could be masking odors from pets, mold, or smoke
Furniture blocking walls
Might be hiding damage or issues
Signs of DIY electrical work
Could indicate unpermitted or unsafe modifications
Musty basement smell
Potential moisture or mold problems
Cracks above doors/windows
May indicate foundation settlement
Remember: A professional home inspection will uncover issues you can't see. Red flags during showings help you decide which homes to pursue, not necessarily which to eliminate.
Document Your Visits
After seeing several homes, they can all start to blend together. Here's how to keep track:
- Take photos of each room and unique features
- Video walkthrough for later review
- Rate each home 1-10 immediately after
- Note your gut reaction and first impressions
Second Showings
Found a home you love? A second showing can be a good idea before making an offer, though sometimes moving quickly is necessary to stay competitive. If time allows, visit at a different time of day to see lighting and traffic patterns.
UP-Specific Things to Check
Living in the Upper Peninsula has unique considerations
Heating System
Check the type, age, and efficiency. Ask about average heating costs. They're significant in UP winters.
Roof Snow Load
Roofs here must handle heavy snow. Look for proper pitch, condition, and any sagging.
Insulation Quality
Good insulation is crucial. Ask about wall, attic, and basement insulation levels.
Driveway Grade
Steep driveways can be treacherous in winter. Consider plowing access and ice buildup.
Well & Septic
Many rural properties have well and septic. Ask about age, capacity, and maintenance history.
Internet Access
With Starlink now available, high-speed internet is accessible almost everywhere. Verify the best options for your location if you work remotely.
Showing FAQs
How many homes should I see before making an offer?
There's no magic number. Some buyers know instantly; others need to see 20+ homes. I recommend seeing enough to understand the market, but don't over-analyze if you find the right one.
Can I open closets and cabinets during showings?
Yes! You're evaluating a major purchase. Open closets, cabinets, and doors. Just be respectful and put things back as you found them.
Should I bring my family to showings?
For initial tours, fewer people is better so you can focus. Bring family for second showings of homes you're serious about.
What if I love a home but my partner doesn't?
This is common! Make a list of priorities together before viewing. Finding a home you both love is worth the extra time.