Open House Checklist

Open houses are exciting—but they’re also where buyers get distracted by paint colors and forget the expensive stuff. Use this checklist to tour smarter, compare homes accurately, and spot red flags before you fall in love.

“A great tour is part emotion, part math—this checklist helps with the math.”

How to use this checklist

Print it, save it to your phone, or copy it into your notes app. The goal is consistency: use the same checklist at every tour so you can compare homes fairly.

If you ever want a second set of eyes on a home, contact me and we’ll schedule a private showing. https://www.southeastgarealestate.com/contact.php

Before you go

  • Confirm the address and route (and drive the area if you can).
  • Know your non-negotiables (location radius, minimum bedrooms, etc.).
  • Bring a phone charger and take notes/photos.
  • If you’re actively shopping, talk to your lender so you know your budget.

Outside the home

Look beyond the front door:

  • Roof: visible wear, missing shingles, sagging, heavy staining.
  • Gutters & drainage: where does water go when it rains?
  • Foundation: major cracks or unevenness.
  • Windows & siding: obvious damage, rot, or gaps.
  • Yard: grading away from the home is a good sign.
  • Neighborhood context: noise, traffic patterns, nearby land use.

Inside the home

Use a quick “systems first” sweep before you focus on finishes:

  • HVAC: age and condition (ask if serviced regularly).
  • Plumbing: water pressure, signs of leaks under sinks.
  • Electrical: outlets, panel access, obvious DIY issues.
  • Floors/walls/ceilings: stains, cracks, unevenness.
  • Smells: musty odors can indicate moisture.

Then evaluate layout:

  • Does the floor plan work for your daily routines?
  • Are the bedrooms and storage usable (not just “technically” there)?
  • Is natural light adequate for you?

Questions to ask

  • How old are the roof and HVAC?
  • Any known repairs or insurance claims?
  • What utilities (and approximate costs) should I expect? (Verify later.)
  • Is there an HOA? If so, what are the dues and key rules?
  • What’s included with the sale? (Appliances, fixtures, etc.)

After the tour

Right after you leave, rate the home 1–10 on these:

  • location/drive logic
  • layout/function
  • condition of big systems
  • how much work you’re willing to do

If you like the home, the next step is a private showing (or follow‑up questions) so you can move confidently.

Need help? https://www.southeastgarealestate.com/contact.php

FAQs

Should I get an inspection if the home “looks perfect”? Yes. Visual tours can’t reveal everything.

How many homes should I tour before offering? It varies, but touring with a checklist helps you decide faster and more confidently.

What if I’m not ready to buy yet? Use tours to learn what you like and what your budget buys—then start with the Home Buying Guide.