What Should I Look for When Touring a Home

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What Should I Look for When Touring a Home

1. Look Past the Pretty — Check the Condition

It’s easy to get swept up by stylish staging, but your first focus should be on the bones of the house. Keep an eye out for water stains, ceiling cracks, uneven floors, or outdated systems like old HVAC units or electrical panels. These could signal hidden repair costs. Don’t be afraid to open closets, check under sinks, and really inspect, not just admire.

2. Consider the Layout and Flow

A beautiful home isn’t enough if it doesn’t function well for your daily life. Does the kitchen connect well to the living space? Are bedrooms in the right spots? Will you need to carry laundry up and down stairs? Picture your routines—mornings, dinners, weekends—and ask if this layout supports them. A great floor plan now means fewer compromises later.

3. Evaluate the Neighborhood, Not Just the House

The home may be perfect—but what about the surroundings? Take time to drive or walk the neighborhood at different hours of the day. Check traffic noise, safety, school zones, nearby parks, and your commute. Talk to neighbors if you can—they’re a goldmine of honest feedback. After all, you’re not just buying a home… you’re choosing a community.

Touring Homes? Be Prepared and Confident

📘 Download our free “First-Time Buyer Game Plan” eBook — includes a printable home tour checklist
💬 Have questions about what to look for? Chat with our team live now
 📞 Want expert eyes on your next showing? Schedule a quick call and we’ll guide you every step of the way.

At Stairway Mortgage, we don’t just help you buy a home — we help you find the right one for your life.
Let’s walk through this together.

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