So, you’re about to tour a house, and you’re not sure what to look for? No worries—you’re not alone. Buying a home is a big deal, and the last thing you want is to fall for a place that looks great on the outside but has problems lurking beneath the surface.
When touring a home, focus on five key things:
Structural integrity – cracks, foundation issues, roof condition.
Plumbing and electrical – leaks, outdated wiring, low water pressure.
Heating and cooling – working systems, old HVAC units, insulation.
Signs of pests – droppings, chewed wires, termite damage.
Neighborhood factors – noise levels, street conditions, proximity to essentials.
In this guide, we’ll go over the major red flags that could mean expensive repairs down the road and the green lights that signal a well-maintained home. Let’s break it down so you can confidently walk into a home tour!
Red Flags: Signs You Might Want to Walk Away
Structural Issues
The foundation is what holds the house up. If it’s cracked or uneven, that’s a major issue. Look for:
Large cracks in walls or ceilings.
Uneven floors or doors that won’t close properly.
Water damage near the foundation.
Danger: If you see a crack wider than ¼ inch, you may be looking at a structural issue. Get a professional to inspect it before moving forward.
Plumbing Problems
Nobody likes surprise plumbing disasters. Some warning signs include:
Low water pressure in faucets and showers.
Leaks under sinks or around toilets.
Water stains on ceilings (this could mean hidden leaks).
Old or Faulty Electrical Work
Outdated electrical systems can be expensive (and dangerous) to fix. Watch for:
Flickering lights.
Exposed or frayed wiring.
Lack of grounded outlets (older homes often don’t have them).
Quick Tip: If you see a fuse box instead of a breaker panel, the electrical system is outdated. Consider an upgrade cost before making an offer.
Roof Troubles
Replacing a roof isn’t cheap. Keep an eye out for:
Missing or curling shingles.
Water stains on ceilings (could be a leaky roof!).
Sagging or uneven rooflines.
Fact: The average asphalt roof lasts about 20-25 years. If the home’s roof is near that age, you might need to budget for a replacement soon.
Signs of Pests
No one wants uninvited guests like termites, rodents, or cockroaches. Warning signs include:
Tiny holes in walls or wood.
Droppings in corners or near baseboards.
Strange smells (mice and rats have a distinctive odor!).
Green Lights: Signs of a Well-Maintained Home
Solid Foundation and Structure
A well-maintained home should have:
Even floors and doors that close properly.
No major cracks in walls or ceilings.
No signs of water pooling around the foundation.
Updated Plumbing and Electrical
Good signs include:
Strong water pressure.
Newer pipes (copper or PVC, not old lead pipes).
A modern electrical panel with circuit breakers.
A Newer or Well-Maintained Roof
If the roof has been replaced in the last 10 years, that’s a plus! Look for:
No missing or damaged shingles.
Proper drainage from gutters.
No signs of leaks inside the house.
Proper Insulation and Energy Efficiency
A good home should keep you comfortable without sky-high energy bills. Look for:
Double-pane windows (better insulation and noise reduction).
A well-maintained HVAC system.
Insulated attic and walls.
A Great Neighborhood
Location matters just as much as the house itself. Pay attention to:
Quiet streets with minimal traffic.
Nearby grocery stores, schools, and parks.
Well-maintained neighboring homes (this can impact property value!).
Quick Home Tour Checklist
| Feature | Red Flags to Avoid | Green Lights to Look For |
| Foundation | Large cracks, uneven floors | No cracks, solid walls |
| Plumbing | Low pressure, leaks | Strong pressure, no leaks |
| Electrical | Flickering lights, old wiring | New panel, modern outlets |
| Roof | Missing shingles, water stains | Newer roof, no sagging |
| Neighborhood | Loud noise, neglected homes | Safe, quiet, well-kept |
Conclusion
Touring a home isn’t just about falling in love with the kitchen. Pay attention to potential red flags, and keep an eye out for features that show the home has been well cared for. If you spot any major issues, it doesn’t mean you have to walk away, but it does mean you should factor in repair costs before making an offer.
