How to Inspect a Home Before Buying A home is one of the most important purchases you can make, so don't be sucked in by a fresh coat of paint and nice carpeting! Keep a sharp eye and consider the details. Steps: 1. Consider the house's general layout. Is it big enough for your family and belongings? Does it have enough storage space? Is there adequate parking/garage space? Is there room for expansion - and how much would adding on cost? 2. Consider the yard. Is the lot big enough for your outdoor activities? How difficult will it be to maintain? 3. Listen for noise, both inside and outside. Talk to potential neighbors about the noise level, and visit the house or condo you're considering at different times of the day - as well as on an evening and a weekend. 4. Make sure the place you're considering gets enough privacy. Can anyone see through the windows from outside? 5. Consider security. Is the home easily accessible to criminals? Is there a security system there? 6. Look for cracks in the driveway. Wide or extensive cracks could indicate a drainage problem in the yard. 7. Look for cracks in the foundation, ceilings and walls, which indicate movement of the structure caused by settling, soil expansion or earthquakes. 8. Check walls and ceilings for signs of water damage. 9. Inspect windows by opening them, both to check condition of their hardware and to make sure they aren't painted shut. Bedroom windows should be large enough to escape through in a fire. 10. Examine both interior and exterior doors: open and shut them to see whether they are level and in working condition. Check for weather stripping and thresholds. 11. Look at the number, condition and size of closets. 12. Inspect floors for wear and for moisture damage. 13. Determine if the walls, ceilings and floors contain asbestos, which is a health hazard. Tips: • It's always best to hire a professional housing inspector to thoroughly check out the home before you buy. An offer to buy a home can be contingent upon a favorable inspection report. • If any of the above issues are unsatisfactory, ask the seller to repair the problem before you move in, or use it as a point in negotiating price.