Ask These Questions When House Hunting
Once you’ve decided to start looking for a house, the first step (after getting pre-approved from your bank) is looking at houses that meet your criteria. However, all houses are not created equal, and it’s a good idea to go into a house equipped with questions.
If you want to effectively evaluate a house, here are some good questions to ask in each area of the house.
Living Room
The living room is truly one of the most important spaces in a home. It typically receives the most traffic and gets the most use. Ask the hard questions so you know what you’re getting into.
How’s the layout and size? Does it match what you were looking for?
What kind of flooring does it have?
If there’s carpet, what is underneath? How old is the carpet?
Do the current owners have pets?
Are there any apparent maintenance issues?
Kitchen
The kitchen is a popular gathering place for people, so it’s important it meets your expectations. Asking these questions will help make sure you will be ready for guests as soon as that last box is unpacked.
Are there updated features?
Do you like the design style of the countertops and backsplash?
Is there plenty of storage?
Are all of the main appliances functional?
What might need replacing in the next 2-5 years?
Does it have a pantry nearby?
Main Bedroom
The main bedroom should be a retreat for you. Take this into consideration as you view it for the first time. Sizing also matters; make sure you don’t have to buy all new furniture before move-in day and measure beforehand!
What is the size of the main bedroom?
Will your furniture fit?
Is the flooring clean and updated?
How is the lighting?
Bathrooms
Nobody wants to own a dirty, outdated bathroom. Think about cleanliness and practicality when you view a home’s bathrooms. Pro tip: It is totally okay to turn on faucets when looking at a house. In fact, I suggest it so you can answer a few of these questions!
Are there cracks on the counter, sinks, toilet, tub, or shower?
Do the pipes knock together when the tub/shower is used?
Is the water pressure high or low?
Are the mountings high enough for you if you are tall?
How’s the drainage?
Do you like the appearance?
Roof
Oklahoma weather is no joke. Make sure the roof on the house you desire is in top shape so you can protect your home and your family.
When was the roof installed?
If there was a hail storm in your area in the last 3-5 years, did the owners have their roof checked?
Is solar an option?
Yard
Most people don’t think to ask questions about the yard, but here are good thoughts to consider when looking at a home.
Does water stand in any specific area?
Where does the water run to when it rains?
Do they have a retaining wall? Why?
What needs to be done in the backyard to make it functional?
Is there enough space? What about too much space?
Next Steps
I hope these questions prepare you for the next time you walk through a home. I’d love to help answer these and any others you may have! Reach out anytime at traceyrice@kw.com or 405-226-3770.