6 months ago
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You’ve finally booked an inspection for a home you’ve been admiring online — and stepping inside can feel like love at first sight. But as appealing as the fresh paint, stylish furniture, and mood lighting may be, it’s important not to let presentation cloud your judgment.
To help you make a sound decision, here are a few smart questions to keep in mind during your visit.
Is the Styling Masking Any Flaws?
Property staging has become a powerful sales tool, and for good reason — it helps buyers visualize living in the space. But sometimes, it’s used to hide potential issues. Look out for rugs that might be covering uneven flooring, plants placed conveniently in front of wall cracks, or mirrors and lights used to disguise the property’s lack of natural light or small size. What you see may not be what you get once the furniture is gone, so focus on the structure, not the staging.
What Renovations Have Been Done?
Ask the agent about any past renovations or structural modifications. This helps you understand whether any improvements add genuine value — and if you’re planning changes of your own, it’s a good way to learn whether there are council or zoning restrictions. Past works might also reveal whether proper approvals were obtained or if shortcuts were taken that could come back to haunt you.
What’s Motivating the Sale, and What’s the Price Expectation?
It never hurts to ask why the current owners are selling. If they’re in a hurry — due to relocation, financial pressure, or otherwise — you may have more negotiation power. Also, find out how long the home has been on the market and whether the asking price is flexible. This can guide you in placing a confident, realistic offer.
Is the Roof in Good Condition?
Roof repairs can be expensive, so it pays to check carefully. From the outside, inspect for missing or warped tiles, sagging areas, and signs of rust in gutters or downpipes. Inside, keep an eye out for water stains, ceiling sagging, or mould. Bringing a torch can help you spot hidden ceiling damage — and if you have any doubts, a professional building inspection is your best friend.
How’s the Plumbing Holding Up?
Don’t be shy about running taps and flushing toilets during your walk-through. Listen for banging pipes or slow drainage, and check if the hot water works. Also, ask how old the hot water system is and whether it’s been regularly serviced. Plumbing problems can escalate quickly, so it’s best to know what you’re working with.
What Direction Does the Home Face?
The orientation of a property has a big impact on light and comfort. North and northeast-facing homes typically receive more natural light throughout the day, which is especially valuable in winter. If the agent has all the lights on during a sunny inspection, it might suggest the house doesn’t get much daylight — a potential red flag for some buyers.
Have You Done Enough Area Research?
Before falling for a home, make sure you’ve done your homework on the surrounding suburb. Look into property trends, recent comparable sales, future developments, zoning changes, and the overall lifestyle offerings. Consider access to transport, schools, shops, and parks — because the location is just as important as the property itself.
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