Things to Look for When Looking at a Used House

Exterior of the Home

• Examine the exterior of the home prior to going inside. The home should be free of trees overhanging the roof, or landscaping too close to the home's exterior structure. Foundations should be free of cracks, mold, mildew or damage. Roofs should lie flat without curls. Chimney structures should be sound. Ask the current home owner the age of the roof to determine the time frame for future repairs or replacement.

Interior of the Home

• Once you are pleased with the exterior of the home, examine the interior. Check the bathrooms, kitchen, basement and baseboards for mold or mildew to determine if the home has excessive moisture. Examine the condition of walls, flooring, windows, doors and fixtures. For example, lift the lid on the toilet tank to determine how good a condition the toilet is in, or check the ceiling for water spots that could indicate roof damage.

Storage Space and Layout

• Envision living inside the home for many years. The sizes of closets, cabinets and storage areas should ideally be large enough to hold your current belongings and potential future items. Walking from room to room should be comfortable and natural. For example, upstairs kitchens require family members and guests to climb stairs for meals. Carpeting requires regular vacuuming and cleaning that may not be ideal for buyers with multiple pets.

Appliances

• Homes include some, if not all, appliances. It is important to know the age, condition and warranty information for each appliance included in the sale. HUD recommends finding out if the current owner will repair or replace appliances if needed. Measure the area for appliances you plan to bring with you, such as a washer and dryer or portable fireplace, to be certain they will fit into the designated areas.

Surrounding Neighborhood

• Relatives, friends and visitors drive through the surrounding neighborhood to reach your home. Examine the neighborhood at different times of the day and evening. The goal is to find a neighborhood that is pleasant and inviting. Think about the cultures, ages and types of people living in the neighborhood. These people are likely to be your neighbors for many years.

Community

• The community you live in affects your lifestyle greatly. Research the community activities and resources prior to visiting a home for purchase. For example, is there a doctor or dentist nearby for routine visits? Buyers with children should check out the school district and individual school ratings. Locate an area that has convenient shopping facilities, grocery stores, gas stations and social or sports activity facilities. The goal is to find a community that fits your lifestyle, interests and personal needs.