Home Shopping Tips

A Helpful Punch List for Home Buyers

You have seen the house photos on-line and fallen in love.  Now you are standing at the front door of your dream home.  But do you know what you should be looking for?  Curb appeal and a good colors are important but your mother was right - the devil is in the details.

This "punch list" from the National Association of Homebuilders was designed for new construction.  But we have found that it is also helpful to buyers looking at existing homes, and just might help you identify problems you might otherwise have missed.

Let's Start Outside

• Grading:  Does the ground around the foundation slope away from the house? Make sure the water does not pond or pool in large puddles, especially near the foundation.  Are there signs of erosion?  Is the shrubbery placed at least 2-3 feet from the foundation to allow for drainage?  What about the driveway.  Does is slope into the garage?  Where will you put the snow?
• Roof and Gutters:  Are the shingles flat and tight? Is the flashing securely in place? Do the gutters and downspouts drain away from the house?
• Exterior Appearance:  Are the windows and doors sealed and protected by weather stripping? Are the trim and fittings tight? Are there any cracks in the siding?  Are the exterior finishes in good condition?  Does the paint cover the surface and trim smoothly - even on the weather side?

And What About the Inside?

• Doors and Windows:  Do the doors and windows close easily? Are any windows loose or cracked?  Are there missing casement handles or window screens?
• Finishes:  Is the painting satisfactory in all rooms, closets and stairways? Are the trims and molding in place?
• Floors:  Is the carpet tight? Do the seams match? Are there any ridges or seam gaps in vinyl tile or linoleum? Are wooden floors properly finished?
• Appliances, Fixtures and Surfaces:  Do all of the appliances work? Check all faucets and plumbing fixtures, including toilets and showers, to make sure they operate properly. Are there any nicks, scratches, cracks or burns on any surfaces, including cabinets and counter tops?
• Electrical, Heating and Air Handling:  Check the electrical fixtures and outlets.  Are there any missing plugs?  Do the heating, cooling or water-heating units operate properly?  If the home has a fireplace, do the draft and damper work? Test the doorbell. Also test the intercom system, garage door opener and any other electrical items.
• Basement and Attic: Are there indications of dampness or leaks? Is there significant cracking in the floors or foundation walls? Are there any obvious defects in exposed components, such as floor joists, I-beams, support columns, insulation, heating ducts, plumbing, electrical, etc.?

Your walk-through should not take the place of a professional home inspection.  However, you should not rely on your inspection to point out potential problems.  If you see something unusual, ask about it!