Touring your home is one of the most important steps in the purchasing process. Looking at your home allows you to assess whether your property truly meets your needs, beyond what you can see online. Whether you’re watching a home for sale in Denver or a tour house in Seattle, knowing what to watch while watching can help you make a confident decision and avoid expensive surprises. This Redfin Real Estate Guide covers what to look for, how to prepare, and what to do after your visit.
What is home viewing?
Viewing your home is the scheduled time to tour the property you are considering purchasing. This allows you to check the layout, condition and functionality of your home and determine whether it meets your needs. Viewing can be private or public, with or without an agent.
Types of viewing at home
Not all home viewing is the same. Understanding this format will help you prepare and set appropriate expectations.
Open House
The open house allows multiple future buyers to visit during a set time window. Typically it is hosted by a listing agent. It is unofficial and no reservations are required.
Watching Rockbox House
This private show will be placed through the buyer’s agents who use a secure lockbox to access the home. It offers a quieter, more intensive tour with less distraction.
Virtual House Viewing
Virtual views use video calls or 3D walkthroughs to view your home remotely. They are useful if you have moved or narrowed down your options before visiting in person.
How to prepare for a home viewing
Before you can go through the door, a successful home viewing begins. Here’s how you can make the most of all your visits:
Please prepare before viewing
Check the list carefully and check out recent comparable home sales in the area. Beware of questions about features, disclosures, or recent updates.
I’ll take your team
If possible, join with a real estate agent. Their experience helps identify potential problems and guide them what to look for.
Bring your document
Keep a mortgage approval letter handy in case you want to move forward quickly. Sellers often prefer buyers who are ready to act.
Please consider the location
Explore the surrounding neighborhoods. Be aware of nearby schools, grocery stores, traffic flow, noise levels and how the area feels at different times.
Evaluate interior layout and flow
Pay attention to how the room is connected, where the bedroom and bathroom are, and how the layout fits into your daily life. Consider entry points, storage space, and flow from one area to another.
We will inspect the details
Look for cracks in the walls, signs of flood damage, uneven flooring, and windows and door conditions. These may indicate structural or maintenance issues.
Check your plumbing and electrical systems
Turn on the faucet and test the water pressure and check for leaks. Flush toilet. Test the light switches and electrical outlets in each room to make sure they are functioning properly.
Examine the basement and attic
These areas often reveal hidden concerns such as moisture, pests and poor insulation. Look for musty, discolored, or exposed wiring.
Take notes and photos
Stay organized using the House Viewing Checklist. You can take notes and photos (with permission) so that you can compare your homes later.
Before your visit, check out our guide on what to include in your house hunting checklist to help organize during the tour.
Consider displaying the second time
If you are seriously interested, schedule another visit at another time. You may find that you missed it for the first time.
Trust your intestines
The home may meet all your standards, but be careful if something feels bad. First impressions are important, and discomfort can indicate deeper concern.
Hire a professional house inspector
If you decide to make an offer, schedule a professional examination. Inspectors can reveal issues that are not visible during standard viewing.
Etiquette while watching your home
Knowing how to behave while watching a home will pay tribute to the seller and help you make a big impression.
I’ll arrive on time
Sellers often plan their day around your appointment. Arrivals late may shorten your viewing or cause inconvenience.
Treat your home with respect
If asked, remove the shoes, avoid touching personal items, and refrain from entering areas outside the lights. Gently handle equipment and doors.
I’ll take into consideration and test it
Take your time and be modest. If you have a seller, avoid commenting loudly or negatively about your home.
I’ll save the negotiation later
Viewing is not the time to discuss pricing and terms with the listing agent or seller. Save real estate agent negotiations.
Instead, ask about recent repairs, utility costs, unenforceable HOA rules, or reasons for sale. Agents can then follow up with the listing agent.
What to do after watching the house?
Check the notes and compare them to others who have seen the house. Consider the pros and cons of layout, condition and location. Talk to your agent about the next steps. This includes scheduling another visit, submitting an offer, or moving on.
FAQ
What should I bring to my home viewing?
We will deliver real estate agents, pre-approval letters, checklists, phone or notebook notebooks, and bills if necessary.
Can I take photos or videos while watching at home?
Always ask first. Some sellers do not like photos due to privacy concerns.
How long does it usually last for a house viewing?
Most viewing takes 15-30 minutes, depending on the size of the property and the level of interest.
What should I look for in the basement or attic?
Check for signs of water intrusion, mold, pests, poor ventilation, or outdated wiring and insulation.
How quickly do I need to follow up after watching my house?
If you are interested, contact your agent on the same day to discuss the next steps. A good home can move quickly.
Viewing the house: bottom row
Viewing your home provides the best opportunity to assess whether your home is appropriate. Preparing in advance, keeping observable, and asking the right questions will help you approach the process with confidence. Redfin’s real estate experts are here to support you at every stage, from the first show to the final closure.
