Buying a home is one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make — and an open house is your golden opportunity to gather insights, ask questions, and truly imagine what it would be like to live there.
But let’s be honest — between the fresh flowers, perfect lighting, and cozy staging, it’s easy to get swept away by appearances. That’s why knowing what to look for during an open house can help you see beyond the surface and make a confident, informed decision.
Here’s your guide to touring homes like a pro:
1. Start with the Structure, Not the Styling
Staging can be stunning, but remember — you’re not buying the furniture. Focus on the bones of the home.
As you walk through each room, pay attention to:
- Cracks in the walls or ceilings
- Uneven floors or sloped areas
- Warped or sticking doors and windows
- Water stains, peeling paint, or signs of past damage
These details might seem small but could point to bigger issues like foundation problems, plumbing leaks, or roof damage.
2. Test the Basics — Don’t Be Shy
It’s perfectly acceptable (and encouraged!) to test the home’s systems during an open house. Try:
- Turning on faucets and showers to check water pressure
- Flushing toilets to ensure proper function
- Opening and closing windows, cabinets, and doors
- Checking outlets and light switches
- Listen for unusual noises. Feel for drafts. These little interactions can reveal a lot about how well the home has been maintained.
3. Consider the Layout & Flow
Every home has a layout, but not every layout works for every lifestyle.
Ask yourself:
- Does this space fit my daily routine?
- Are the bedrooms in the right areas for privacy and noise control?
- Is the kitchen connected to living or dining areas for easy entertaining?
- Will my furniture fit comfortably in these rooms?
Also, pay attention to natural light, ventilation, and overall flow — these factors can make or break how a home feels to live in.
4. Look (and Smell) for Red Flags
Use your senses. Look closely. Take a deep breath when you walk in — and again when you enter bathrooms, closets, or basements. Musty or smoky odors could indicate mold, poor ventilation, or prior damage.
Other signs to look for:
- Rust or corrosion around pipes and water heaters
- Visible mold, especially around windows or in showers
- Insect droppings or rodent traps
- Fresh paint only in one area (which might be hiding something)
If you spot anything concerning, jot it down so you can follow up during inspection or ask the listing agent directly.
5. Don’t Skip the Outside
A home’s curb appeal might catch your eye — but look deeper. Walk around the property and check:
- Condition of the roof, gutters, and siding
- Cracks or uneven pavement in walkways or driveways
- Grading and drainage (Is water flowing away from the home?)
- Fencing, decks, patios, and outdoor lighting
- Landscaping upkeep and tree root impact near the home
Also, get a feel for the neighborhood. Are the surrounding homes well-kept? Is there street parking? Noise? Safety concerns?
6. Ask Questions (And Take Notes!)
Bring a notebook or use your phone to jot down impressions and questions. If the listing agent is available, don’t hesitate to ask:
- Why is the seller moving?
- How long has the property been on the market?
- Are there any known issues or recent repairs?
- What’s included in the sale (appliances, fixtures, etc.)?
- What are the average utility costs or HOA fees?
These questions help you understand not only the home, but also the context of the sale.
7. Trust Your Gut Feeling
This might be the most important tip of all. Sometimes, everything checks out on paper — but it just doesn’t feel right.
Other times, a home might surprise you and feel exactly like where you’re meant to be. Listen to that feeling.
Buying a home is a financial decision, yes — but it’s also an emotional one. You’re not just purchasing a property — you’re choosing a place to build your life.
Tour with Confidence
An open house isn’t just about seeing pretty finishes — it’s about gathering real, useful information to guide your next step.
At Country Queen Real Estate, we help buyers like you navigate the entire journey with care, transparency, and local expertise. Whether you’re just starting to explore or narrowing down your top picks, we’re here to help you tour with confidence — and move forward with clarity.
Ready to start your home search?
Reach out today to schedule your next open house tour with one of our trusted real estate professionals.
