Buying
What to Look for During a Home Showing
Published 2025-03 · Updated 2025-05 · 5 min read
A practical checklist for evaluating a home in person, beyond the surface details you notice in the first minute.
A showing is a chance to test how a home actually lives, not just how it presents in photos. A structured walk-through helps you compare properties fairly.
Start with the street
How does the street feel? Is parking practical? Are the neighbouring properties well maintained? These first impressions rarely change once you move in.
Layout and flow
Walk the path you'd take on a normal day — dropping bags in the entry, moving groceries to the kitchen, getting kids or pets from the front door to the main living area.
Systems and maintenance
Note the age of the roof, furnace, hot water tank, windows and electrical panel. Look for signs of moisture in the basement, around windows and under sinks.
The trade-offs
Every home has them. The goal is to see them clearly before an offer, not after.
This resource is educational and reviewed periodically. It is not legal, financial, tax, mortgage or inspection advice.
Next step
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