A tour is one of the most important aspects of buying a home. You get your first up-close look at the property and a chance to consider if it’s right for you. There are key considerations to keep in mind when you tour a house for sale. Use the following guide to get the most from the experience.

What to Consider When Touring a Home

1. The Overall Condition

You can learn a lot about the home from its general condition. Right away, look at the lawn. Overgrown areas may host pests, and dying trees could create safety risks.

Look at uneven grades or eroded areas around the foundation where rainwater is stripping the soil. Poor drainage could damage the foundation. Mold could mean spores have spread into the home and are creating a health problem.

Ask about the septic tank and drain field. Soil compression and tree roots can compromise the waste treatment system and require costly repairs in the future.

2. Existing Systems

Consider the HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems to see if they’re going to meet your goals. No central heating and cooling means you’ll have to run ductwork and purchase a system if you want to upgrade.

Few outlets or dated wiring—common in older homes—means hiring an electrician to rewire. You may need to extend plumbing for a pool pump or irrigation system.

All of these upgrades cost money after the fact. See how they align with your goals and hire a home inspector to take a comprehensive look at the systems if you want to move forward.

3. Future Plans

No one wants to buy a house for sale and outgrow it in a few years. Purchase with the future in mind. Make sure there are enough bedrooms if you plan on having children. You may also want a fenced-in lawn or finished basement for a play area.

Make sure there’s usable yard space if you’re considering a home addition or swimming pool. Many people buy a home for its potential, so make sure you won’t face roadblocks later on.

Ready to tour a house for sale? Lawrence Realty Inc. has represented buyers and sellers in Red Wing, MN, and the surrounding communities since 1948. They maintain an extensive, diverse portfolio of properties, and a real estate agent will carefully work with you to reach your buying or selling goals. Call (651) 388-4745 to speak with a representative and visit their website to browse their real estate listings. You can receive updates about homes for sale in your area by connecting on Facebook.