Walkthrough Checklist for Buyers

Buyers should take a strategic approach when viewing properties to ensure they thoroughly assess each home. The checklist below serves as a helpful guide to keep you focused on key features and potential issues during your walkthrough. While this checklist is a useful reference, it is not a substitute for a professional home inspection conducted by a licensed and registered home inspector. We strongly recommend that all buyers hire a qualified home inspector to conduct a full evaluation before finalizing a purchase. This checklist is simply a tool to help you take notes and stay organized during property viewings.

Exterior

• Roof, Siding & Foundation: Look for missing shingles, cracks, or signs of wear.

• Landscaping & Yard: Check for overgrown trees, uneven terrain, and required maintenance.

• Water Drainage & Damage: Look for standing water, improper drainage, or signs of flooding.

Interior

• Walls, Ceilings & Floors: Look for cracks, stains, uneven surfaces, or signs of previous water damage.

• Windows & Doors: Open and close all windows and doors to check for sticking, drafts, or broken locks.

• Pest Issues: Look for signs of insects, rodents, or pest damage, such as droppings, nests, or gnawed materials.

Kitchen

• Appliances: Check the age, condition, and functionality of the refrigerator, stove, dishwasher, and microwave.

• Plumbing: Run the faucet, check for leaks under the sink, and test the garbage disposal.

• Storage Space: Open all cabinets and drawers to check for storage capacity and condition.

Bathrooms

• Plumbing: Check for leaks around sinks, toilets, and tubs. Flush toilets to ensure proper drainage.

• Water Pressure & Temperature: Turn on faucets and showers to test water flow and temperature consistency.

• Ventilation: Ensure the bathroom fan works and there are no signs of mold or mildew.

Electrical

• Light Switches & Outlets: Test every switch and outlet in each room.

• Circuit Breaker: Check for labeled breakers and any tripped switches that could indicate past electrical issues.

Plumbing

• Visible Leaks: Inspect under sinks and around exposed pipes for any leaks or water stains.

• Water Heater: Check the age, condition, and capacity of the water heater.

• Water Flow: Turn on multiple faucets at once to check water pressure throughout the home.

Heating & Cooling

• HVAC System: Test both the heating and cooling systems to ensure they function properly.

• Thermostat: Adjust settings to confirm that the system responds correctly.

• Air Vents & Filters: Look for dust buildup and ensure air is flowing properly from vents.

Storage Spaces

• Closets & Storage Areas: Check for size, shelving, and organization potential.

• Basement & Attic: Look for signs of moisture, insulation issues, or structural concerns.

Safety Features

• Smoke Detectors & Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Ensure they are installed and functioning.

• Stair Handrails & Railings: Check for stability and proper installation.

Overall Impressions

• Layout & Flow: Walk through each space to see if the layout meets your needs.

• Paint & Flooring: Look for scuffs, chips, or uneven surfaces.

• Odors or Pet Damage: Be aware of any strong smells, stains, or signs of pet-related wear and tear.

Neighborhood & Surroundings

• Noise Levels: Visit at different times of the day to assess noise from traffic, neighbors, or businesses.

• Proximity to Amenities: Check the distance to grocery stores, parks, schools, and public transportation.

Ask Questions

• Repairs & Renovations: Ask about recent updates, warranties on major systems, and any outstanding repairs.

• Property History: Inquire about past issues, such as water damage, pest problems, or insurance claims.

• Home Inspection: Do not rely solely on seller disclosures. It is your responsibility to hire a reputable home inspector to conduct a full assessment.