What to Look for During a Home Tour: The Ultimate Guide for First-Time Buyers!

Starting the home-buying process is both exciting and a bit overwhelming. One of the biggest challenges is knowing how to recognize “the one” — the perfect house that will serve as your future home. As a real estate professional with the Nelson Home Group, Kansas City’s highest-rated real estate team on Google, I often get asked how to tell when a home is right for a buyer. The truth? Only you can know for sure, but there are some key factors you should be mindful of during a home tour that can help guide your decision. Here’s what to look for before putting in an offer.

1. Consider the Floor Plan

The floor plan is one of the most critical aspects of any home. Ask yourself whether the layout fits your lifestyle. For example, if stairs are a concern, then a two-story or split-level home might not be ideal for you. Check how easy it is to navigate from one room to another, especially high-traffic areas like the living room, kitchen, or bathroom.

Also, think about whether the home has enough storage, including kitchen cabinets and closets. Do you prefer an open concept, or would you rather have separate spaces? While open floor plans are popular, some buyers prefer a more traditional layout, particularly in older homes. And don’t forget: if having a basement is essential — perhaps for Kansas City’s unpredictable storms — avoid homes built on slabs or crawl spaces.

Remember, while cosmetic changes like new paint or flooring can be easily updated, adjusting a home’s layout or adding space is much harder and costlier. Make sure the floor plan fits your needs before moving forward.

2. Watch for Structural and Mechanical Issues

While touring a home, keep an eye out for any obvious structural or mechanical issues. This includes cracks in the foundation, the condition of the roof, or the age of the water heater and furnace. You don’t need to be an expert, but look for signs of potential problems that could lead to expensive repairs down the road. Cracks in the foundation, for example, could point to settling issues or moisture problems that could eventually lead to mold.

If anything seems off, make sure to request a professional inspection. This could save you from costly repairs and protect your health and safety in the long run. For example, an outdated electrical panel isn’t just a potential inconvenience — it could pose a fire risk. Don’t hesitate to ask for a seller’s disclosure, which is required in both Missouri and Kansas, to understand any known issues with the property.

3. Evaluate Cosmetic Work Needed

Now let’s talk cosmetics. Once you’re confident the home is structurally sound, think about what changes, if any, you’d want to make. Do the cabinets or walls need a fresh coat of paint? Does the flooring need an update? Consider what’s important to you, but keep in mind your budget and timeline for making any improvements.

If you’re okay with making updates over time, buying a home that needs a few cosmetic changes might be a smart choice. However, if the home is outdated and you know you’ll need to do significant remodeling to make it your own, factor that into your offer and budget.

4. Consider Your Furniture and Space Needs

While you shouldn’t let the size of your furniture dictate your decision, it’s still important to consider whether the space will accommodate your existing pieces. Do you have a king-sized bed that you can’t live without? Make sure the master bedroom can fit it comfortably.

Also, check out the garage if you have large vehicles or equipment to store. Does the dining room offer enough space for your family gatherings? Small things like this can make a big difference in your comfort. If you’re serious about measurements, a laser measuring tool can be a handy and affordable way to get exact dimensions quickly.

5. How Does the House Make You Feel?

Finally, and perhaps most importantly, how does the home make you feel when you walk through the door? While buying a house involves plenty of practical considerations, it’s also an emotional decision. A home is where you’ll create memories, and it’s okay to “fall in love” with it.

If a home makes you feel excited, comfortable, and happy, then it might just be the one. Sometimes, it’s worth a little extra work or money to make a house your dream home because of the joy it will bring you in the years to come.

Bonus Tip: Make a Wants vs. Needs List

Before touring homes, take some time to create a list of your must-haves and your wants. These are the non-negotiables versus the things that would be nice to have but aren’t deal-breakers. Maybe you need a minimum of three bedrooms, but a fourth would be great. Perhaps you prefer an updated kitchen but could live with one that needs a few changes.

Your needs should be realistic for your budget, but don’t shy away from including your wants on your list as well. This approach will help you make a clear and confident decision when the time comes.

Remember, buying a home is an investment, and it’s important that it meets your needs and brings you joy. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect home in the Kansas City area!

If you’re ready to start your search, feel free to reach out to us. We’d love to help you find a home that matches your needs and lifestyle.