House Viewing Tips: What to Watch For

Touring a home is one of the most important steps in the buying process. A house viewing lets you evaluate whether a property truly meets your needs, beyond what you see online. Whether you’re looking at homes for sale in Denver or touring houses in Seattle, knowing what to watch for during a viewing can help you make a confident decision and avoid costly surprises. This Redfin real estate guide covers what to look for, how to prepare, and what to do after your visit.

What is a house viewing?

A house viewing is a scheduled time to tour a property you’re considering buying. It allows you to see the home’s layout, condition, and features up close and determine whether it meets your needs. Viewings can be private or public, with or without your agent present.

Types of house viewings

Not all house viewings are the same – understanding the format can help you prepare and set the right expectations.

Open house

An open house allows multiple prospective buyers to visit during a set time window, usually hosted by the listing agent. It’s informal, and no appointment is required.

Lockbox house viewing

This private showing is arranged through a buyer’s agent, who accesses the home using a secure lockbox. It provides a quieter, more focused tour with fewer distractions.

Virtual house viewing

Virtual viewings use video calls or 3D walkthroughs to show the home remotely. They’re useful if you’re relocating or narrowing down options before visiting in person.

How to get ready for a house viewing

A successful house viewing starts before you even walk through the door. Here’s how to make the most of every visit:

Prepare before viewing

Review the listing carefully and check recent comparable home sales in the area. Note any questions about features, disclosures, or recent updates.

Bring your team

If possible, attend with your real estate agent. Their experience can help identify potential issues and guide you through what to look for.

Bring your documents

Have your mortgage pre-approval letter on hand in case you want to move forward quickly. Sellers often favor buyers who are ready to act.

Consider location

Explore the surrounding neighborhood. Note nearby schools, grocery stores, traffic flow, noise levels, and how the area feels at different times of day.

Evaluate interior layout and flow

Pay attention to how rooms connect, the location of bedrooms and bathrooms, and how the layout fits your daily routine. Consider entry points, storage space, and the flow from one area to another.

Inspect details

Look for cracks in the walls, signs of water damage, uneven flooring, and the condition of windows and doors. These may indicate structural or maintenance issues.

Check plumbing and electrical systems

Turn on faucets to test water pressure and check for leaks. Flush toilets. Test light switches and electrical outlets in each room to ensure they’re working properly.

Examine the basement and attic

These areas often reveal hidden concerns like moisture, pests, or poor insulation. Look for any musty smells, discoloration, or exposed wiring.

Take notes and pictures

Use a house viewing checklist to stay organized. Take notes and photos (with permission) so you can compare homes later. 

Before your visit, check out our guide on what to include in a house hunting checklist to help you stay organized during your tour.

Consider a second viewing

If you’re seriously interested, schedule another visit at a different time of day. You may notice things you missed the first time.

Trust your gut

A home might meet all your criteria, but if something feels off, take note. First impressions matter, and discomfort can point to deeper concerns.

Hire a professional home inspector

If you decide to make an offer, schedule a professional inspection. Inspectors can uncover issues that aren’t visible during a standard viewing.

Etiquette during a house viewing

Knowing how to behave during a house viewing shows respect to the sellers and helps you leave a great impression.

Arrive on time

Sellers often plan their day around your appointment. Arriving late may shorten your viewing or cause inconvenience.

Treat the home with respect

Remove shoes if asked, avoid touching personal items, and refrain from entering off-limit areas. Handle fixtures and doors gently.

Inspect with consideration

Take your time, but be discreet. If the seller is present, avoid commenting loudly or negatively about the home.

Save negotiations for later

Viewings are not the time to discuss pricing or terms with the listing agent or seller. Save negotiations for your real estate agent. 

Instead, ask about recent repairs, utility costs, unenforceable HOA rules, or reasons for selling. Your agent can also follow up with the listing agent afterward.

What to look for during a house viewing

Beyond layout and finishes, a thorough house viewing means checking functional systems and livability details that aren’t always obvious at first glance. Here’s what to pay attention to:

Evaluate major appliances

If the home includes appliances like a refrigerator, oven, dishwasher, or washer and dryer, check their condition. Are they modern or dated? Do they show signs of heavy wear? Open doors and inspect interiors if permitted, and ask about warranties or recent repairs.

Assess HVAC systems and water heaters

A home’s heating and cooling systems can significantly affect your comfort and energy costs. During the house viewing, locate the furnace, air conditioning unit, and water heater. Look for manufacture dates, maintenance stickers, or signs of rust and corrosion. Ask your agent to follow up on service history.

Inspect storage spaces (respectfully)

Check closets, pantries, and built-ins to make sure there’s enough room for your needs. It’s appropriate to open doors and drawers that are part of the home’s structure – like kitchen cabinets, bedroom closets, or linen storage – but avoid rummaging through personal belongings. Be mindful of your movements and avoid entering private areas not relevant to the sale.

Test doors, drawers, and windows

Gently open and close doors, drawers, and windows to ensure they operate smoothly. Sticking doors or warped cabinetry could indicate moisture issues or poor craftsmanship. Pay attention to any misalignment or unusual resistance, especially in the kitchen and bathrooms.

Note overall functionality 

Try to picture how you’ll move through the space day to day. Are the storage areas conveniently located? Do doors open fully without obstruction? These small usability details can have a big impact over time.

What to do after a house viewing

Review your notes and compare the home to others you’ve seen. Consider the pros and cons of layout, condition, and location. Talk with your agent about next steps – this may include scheduling another visit, submitting an offer, or moving on.

FAQs

What should I bring to a house viewing?

Bring your real estate agent, pre-approval letter, a checklist, phone or notebook for notes, and tape measure if needed.

Can I take photos or videos during a house viewing?

Always ask first. Some sellers prefer no photos due to privacy concerns.

How long does a house viewing usually last?

Most viewings take 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the size of the property and your level of interest.

What should I look for in a basement or attic?

Check for signs of water intrusion, mold, pests, poor ventilation, or outdated wiring and insulation.

How soon should I follow up after a house viewing?

If you’re interested, contact your agent the same day to discuss next steps. Good homes can move quickly.

House viewing: The bottom line

A house viewing gives you the best opportunity to evaluate whether a home is the right fit. By preparing in advance, staying observant, and asking the right questions, you can approach the process with confidence. Redfin real estate professionals are here to support you at every stage – from your first showing to the final closing.