Buyer Resources

Home Tour Checklist

Don't walk into a showing without this. Use this checklist to evaluate every home you tour on facts, not feelings — so when it's time to make an offer, you're confident.

First Impressions & Exterior

  • Check the roof condition from the streetLook for missing shingles, sagging, or moss — a roof replacement can cost $15,000–$30,000+
  • Inspect gutters and downspoutsClogged or damaged gutters lead to foundation and water damage issues
  • Look at the foundation from outsideCracks wider than a hairline on the exterior can signal settling issues
  • Check grading around the houseThe ground should slope away from the foundation — not toward it
  • Note the driveway and walkway conditionCracks and uneven surfaces can indicate foundation movement or drainage problems
  • Observe the neighborhood at this time of dayTraffic patterns, parking, and neighbor activity matter — visit at different times
  • Check the lot orientationWest-facing backyards in Austin can significantly increase summer cooling costs
  • Note proximity to major roads, power lines, or commercial propertiesAffects noise, privacy, and long-term resale value

Entry & Common Areas

  • Test all light switchesNon-functioning lights can indicate electrical issues or deferred maintenance
  • Check doors for smooth operationSticking or misaligned doors can signal foundation shifts
  • Look at ceiling and wall corners for water stainsYellow or brown stains indicate past or current leaks — always ask about history
  • Note the flooring condition throughoutFactor refinishing or replacement into your offer math
  • Check for cracks in walls or ceilingsDiagonal cracks at window corners are particularly telling for foundation issues
  • Smell the air — seriouslyMusty smell = potential moisture issue. Pet odors may require full carpet/subfloor replacement
  • Test cell signal in every roomEspecially important for work-from-home buyers — dead zones are a real quality-of-life issue

Kitchen

  • Run water in the sink and check pressure and drainageSlow drain or low pressure can indicate plumbing issues
  • Open cabinets and check under the sink for moisture or stainingUnder-sink leaks are common and often go undetected
  • Check dishwasher, oven, and range for operationVerify all appliances work — confirm what conveys with the sale
  • Inspect the refrigerator space and ice maker hookupIf the seller's fridge doesn't convey, confirm the space fits a standard model
  • Check exhaust fan or range hood for functionVentilation matters for air quality — especially in older homes
  • Note counter space, storage, and layoutKitchen functionality is consistently cited as a top resale factor

Bathrooms

  • Test all faucets and showers for pressure and temperatureLow hot water pressure can indicate water heater or plumbing issues
  • Check for soft spots in flooring around toilet and tubSoft or spongy floors indicate water damage and potential subfloor replacement
  • Look at caulking and grout conditionCracked caulk around tubs and showers is a moisture intrusion risk
  • Flush toilets and listenA running toilet wastes water; a slow flush can indicate drain issues
  • Check bathroom exhaust fansProper ventilation prevents mold — verify fans actually vent to outside
  • Count electrical outlets and check GFCIs near waterGFCI outlets are required by code near water sources

Bedrooms & Storage

  • Measure the primary bedroom and closetBring a tape measure — listing photos use wide-angle lenses that exaggerate space
  • Check window condition and operationFogged double-pane windows have failed seals — replacement can be costly
  • Note closet size and built-in storageTexas homes often skimp on closets — factor in furniture requirements
  • Check for ceiling fan mounting and bedroom outletsCode requires a certain number of outlets per room — older homes may not meet current standards
  • Listen for noise from street, neighbors, or HVAC from this roomBedrooms should be quiet — check at street-facing and shared-wall rooms

Systems: HVAC, Electrical & Plumbing

  • Ask about HVAC age and service recordsIn Austin's climate, an HVAC system older than 12–15 years may need imminent replacement ($5,000–$15,000+)
  • Check the electrical panel for age and capacityOlder fuse boxes or undersized panels are a safety concern and potential insurance issue
  • Ask about water heater ageTank water heaters typically last 8–12 years. Tankless heaters last longer but cost more to repair
  • Ask about the plumbing materialOlder homes may have cast iron drain lines or galvanized supply lines that are aging or failing
  • Check attic access if possibleLook for insulation depth, evidence of leaks, and HVAC duct condition
  • Note thermostat type and locationSmart thermostats and properly placed units improve efficiency — ask about recent energy bills

Questions to Ask at Every Showing

  • How long has the home been on market, and have there been any price reductions?Days on market and price history are public data — but hearing the agent's explanation is informative
  • Have there been any known insurance claims on this property?Ask for the CLUE report — it shows insurance claim history
  • What are the average monthly utility costs?Austin summers are expensive — ask about June–August electric bills specifically
  • Is this home in a flood zone?Check FEMA flood maps. Flood insurance in Austin can add $1,000–$5,000+ annually
  • What are the HOA rules, fees, and financial health?HOA fees, restrictions, and reserve funds significantly affect your total cost of ownership
  • Why is the seller moving?Not always answerable, but the response — or the hesitation — is informative
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