8 things to look for when you go on a showing

When you’re searching for a new home, going on showings is the part where you can find out stuff the slick photos and virtual tours won’t tell you. Does it have the right feel? Does the layout make sense? Is there damage the pics don’t show? Will the sound of the clanging streetcar outside drive you crazy? 

There’s a lot you can discover on a showing (or an open house, if that’s how you’re checking things out), especially if you know what to look for. Here’s a list of questions to ask as you do that initial walkthrough: 

1. Is there any obvious damage? 

If it’s not brand new or hasn’t just been renovated, you’re bound to find a little wear and tear. That’s easy to fix. But red flags can include mold, water damage, condensation, peeling paint, roof or foundation issues,  insects, sloppy DIY – anything that’s not easy to fix and can indicate a bigger problem. Also, if there are general signs that the home hasn’t been well-maintained, that could give you problems in the future. 

2. Will the rooms fit your furniture? 

Keep a measuring tape handy for every showing. Will the bedroom fit your king bed and a couple of side tables? Can you get your sectional comfortably into the living room? Will the charming office with the sloped ceilings actually work with your desk and that bookcase you love? Don’t just eyeball it: stagers use small furniture and other strategies to make homes feel bigger, so it can be hard to tell. 

3. Is noise an issue?  

Listen carefully. Can you hear the neighbours talking to each other? People upstairs walking around? Is there a new building going up across the road? Can you hear the highway or the subway from the unit? 

4. Are the floors in good shape? 

How well have they held up to wear? Are there scratches from pets, kids, or furniture? How do they feel when you walk across them in your socks? If they feel bumpy or uneven, that could be the sign of a larger issue – like warping from water damage or sloping from a damaged foundation.

5. Do the appliances work? 

Just looking at the stove and washer may not be enough to determine if they’re in good working order. Turn them on to see if (and how well) they work. Just don’t forget to turn them off before you leave! 

6. Is there enough storage? 

Look closely at closets, pantries, built-ins, and other storage areas to get a sense of how much space you’ll have to hang your clothes and store your stuff. Take out your measuring tape here, too – good decluttering and staging can make closets seem roomier than they are. 

7. Do you like the building? 

If you’re shopping for a condo, what you get extends well beyond your unit. Look closely at the common areas like the lobby, rooftop patio, or gym. Are they well-maintained and appealing? Do you see yourself using those spaces as an extension of your home? 

8. Is the neighbourhood one you can picture yourself living in? 

Don’t limit yourself to just looking at the unit or the building. See what else is around. If you’re not familiar with the street and the surrounding area, go for a walk. Pop into the local coffee shop, check out nearby parks, see where the closest transit stops are – and just wander around to see if you like the vibe. 

Ultimately, don’t be shy when you’re on a showing. Open doors, run taps, and flush toilets. Ask lots of questions and take plenty of notes (especially if you’re seeing a lot of places). Get all the information you need to decide if you can see yourself living there. Due diligence up front will mean less hassles down the road – and greater peace of mind.