Things to Consider When Buying a New Home

Submitted by Patrick W. Miller
Homeowner in Munster, Indiana

Look at the neighborhood first

• Note the curb appeal of the house
• Check the condition of neighboring homes
• Note the condition of your street and cracks in sidewalks, etc.
• Talk to neighbors and ask about the neighborhood, schools, etc.

Look at the outside structure of the house

• Look for cracks in the foundation
• Check if the ground runs away from the foundation
• Note cracks in walkways, etc.
• Look up and note the condition of the exterior walls and roof
• Look for standing water near downspouts, and other places on the property
• Note the condition of any outside structures (e.g., fence, shed, deck)
• Check the condition of trees and shrubs

Look at the condition of the inside of the house without looking at the furnishings

• Check the interior walls for cracks
• Note excessive wear and tear on floor coverings
• Check all light fixtures and switches
• Flush all toilets, note if shutoff valves are installed at each fixture
• Turn on the water at all sinks and bathtubs and note drainage
• Check crawl space and note any standing water
• Check the basement and note any mildew smells.
• Check the basement walls and note any watermarks
• Look at the basement ceiling and note any watermarks
• Look in the attic and note any watermarks.
• Check the working condition of all appliances. Ask what is sold with the house.

Advice written by an experienced home buyer now located in Northwest Indiana