By Elizabeth Putnam, Real Estate Broker | Mosaic Community Lifestyle Realty | Asheville & Western North Carolina
Let’s go see some houses! Touring homes is one of the most useful—and often most enjoyable—parts of the buying process. It is a chance to imagine your life in a property, ask questions, and begin understanding what ownership might involve.
A showing should be much more than opening the front door.
Come Prepared with Property Information
I typically provide an MLS information sheet and a GIS map showing approximate boundaries. Relevant seller disclosures may also be useful. Larger documents, such as covenants and restrictions, are often easier to review by email.
GIS lines are a starting point, not a survey. If boundaries or access matter to your intended use, we may need further investigation.
Look Beyond the Finishes
You will hear me talking as we walk through a home. Quite a bit, actually! I share what I am seeing, hearing, smelling, and noticing. We might discuss evidence of moisture, floor movement, unusual odors, drainage, maintenance, or how the layout works.
I also want to hear your impressions. Would the rooms fit your furniture? Does the access feel manageable? Could a different use of a room solve a layout concern?
I am your sounding board, and I enjoy sharing what I have learned about houses and homeownership. When a question calls for an inspector, contractor, engineer, or other specialist, we will identify the appropriate professional.
Gather Information Before Offering
Most formal inspections happen after a buyer is under contract. A showing does not replace those inspections, and some conditions will not be visible.
Under the standard North Carolina contract, inspection findings do not automatically require the seller to agree to new repairs or concessions. Existing contractual obligations still apply. That makes thoughtful observation before offering valuable.
My goal is for you to approach an offer with your eyes wide open: excited about the possibilities and aware of the questions we still need to answer.
Ready to tour? Reach me at (828) 301-6374.
Related reading: Step 6: Writing an Offer · Due Diligence Explained · Homebuying Overview
Additional resource: NCREC: Due Diligence Questions and Answers.
- Homebuying Guide
