Home showings are one of the most exciting parts of the home-buying process. They give you the chance to picture life inside the space, see how the rooms flow together, and decide if it truly feels like home. But beyond first impressions, every showing is also an opportunity to notice details that reveal how well the property has been maintained.
Whether you are a buyer, investor, or showing agent, knowing what to check during a home showing helps you avoid costly surprises. These house showing tips will guide you through each walkthrough so you can make confident decisions about any property.
- What to Look for During a Home Showing
- 1. Check the Floors
- 2. Test Cabinets and Drawers
- 3. Evaluate Curb Appeal
- 4. Inspect the Exterior for Damage
- 5. Follow Your Nose
- 6. Look for Water Damage
- 7. Test Appliances
- 8. Run the HVAC System
- 9. Walk the Yard
- 10. Test Windows and Doors
- Keep Buyers and Clients Confident
What to Look for During a Home Showing
When touring a home, focus on key details that reveal its true condition. Check the floors, windows, and doors for damage, inspect cabinets and appliances, test the HVAC system, and look for water stains or musty smells. Walk the yard, review the exterior, and evaluate overall curb appeal to spot potential issues before making an offer.
1. Check the Floors
Start with the basics. Floors often reveal a lot about the home’s overall condition. Look for scratches, gaps, or uneven boards in hardwood areas. If the flooring feels soft or uneven, that might point to water damage or foundation issues.
For tile, check that grout is intact and no tiles are loose or cracked. Carpets should lie flat without ripples, stains, or fraying edges. Even slight sloping can signal larger structural concerns worth double checking.
2. Test Cabinets and Drawers
It might feel awkward to open every cabinet and drawer, but this is one of the most practical home buyer showing tips you can follow. Cabinets can hide mold, leaks, pests, or outdated wiring. Make sure each one opens and closes properly, and check under sinks for any signs of water damage or mildew.
Taking a few minutes to inspect storage spaces helps uncover issues early and gives you a clearer idea of what repairs might be needed later.
3. Evaluate Curb Appeal
Curb appeal is more than just the first impression you get when pulling up to the property. It reflects how well the home has been cared for and plays a big role in long term value. Look at the landscaping, driveway, and exterior paint. Notice how neighboring homes are maintained, as this can affect both value and enjoyment of the area.
A well-kept exterior usually points to a home that has been loved and looked after inside too.
4. Inspect the Exterior for Damage
Take a slow walk around the outside of the home. Look for cracks in the foundation, chipped paint, or any damages. Check that gutters are clear and draining properly. Missing roof shingles or sagging areas might suggest water issues or old materials that may need replaced soon.
These simple tips for touring a home can save you from costly surprises after closing. It’s always better to spot problems before they become yours to fix.
5. Follow Your Nose
Your sense of smell can reveal more than you might expect. Pay attention to any odors as you walk through the property. Strong artificial fragrances can be a sign that someone is trying to mask a deeper issue.
Be cautious of:
- Pet odors that may have soaked into flooring
- Cigarette smoke that lingers in walls and vents
- Musty smells that can signal mold or water leaks
If you notice any of these, it’s worth asking questions. Odor removal and related repairs can quickly add up.
6. Look for Water Damage
Water damage is one of the most expensive problems to repair, so it belongs near the top of your home showing checklist. Look for discoloration, stains, or warping on walls and ceilings. Peeling paint and bubbling wallpaper can also be warning signs.
Step lightly on floors near sinks and tubs to see if they feel soft. It is also worth checking around windows for any signs of moisture.
7. Test Appliances
If the home includes appliances, make sure they work properly. Open the refrigerator, turn on the oven, and check the washer and dryer connections. Even clean looking appliances can have issues that are easy to miss during a quick showing.
Ask the seller or listing agent if the appliances are staying with the home and whether they have been serviced recently. This step helps you understand exactly what you are purchasing.
8. Run the HVAC System
A working heating and cooling system is essential for comfort and energy efficiency. Ask to test both heating and cooling during your showing. Hold your hand to the vents to check whether hot/cool air is blowing from the vent. If the unit isn’t switched on, adjust the temperature and listen for it kicking on.
Replacing an HVAC unit can be a major expense, so confirm its condition before moving forward with a property.
9. Walk the Yard
The yard is part of the property too, and it deserves attention. Walk around to check for drainage issues, overgrown trees, or damaged fences. Pay particular attention to any large trees in the yard. Check their distance from the house and whether they could potentially be dangerous.
If there is a pool, inspect its condition and ask about maintenance needs. Outdoor upkeep can be time consuming and should fit your lifestyle and budget.
10. Test Windows and Doors
Open and close a few windows and doors to make sure they work smoothly and seal tightly. Look for drafts, cracks, or condensation between glass panes, which can signal poor insulation.
If you’re in Florida or another coastal area, confirm that the windows are hurricane-compliant. High-quality windows improve comfort, boost safety, and can help lower monthly energy costs.
Keep Buyers and Clients Confident
A home showing is your chance to look beyond first impressions and focus on the details that matter most. These house showing tips help you identify potential issues early and make every walkthrough more efficient and informative.
At Showami, we make showings simple. Our on-demand platform connects licensed real estate agents with other agents who can complete showings on their behalf. It’s the fastest way for busy professionals to manage client requests, save time, and keep deals moving forward.
Ready to simplify your next showing? Log in to your Showami account or create one today to start requesting showing help from licensed agents in your area.
For more tips, visit: Best Practices for Home Showings