If you are buying a home in Knoxville, you are probably planning on visiting a few open houses. It is important to note that these events are staged to showcase the home to its best advantage, and it can be easy to find yourself dazzled by decor and staging. However, it is important to look beyond that and really get a feel for what the home actually has to offer you and your family. Let's take a look at some of the things you should look for when attending an open house if you are buying a home in Knoxville.
Windows
Take a good look at the windows while you are touring the home. Not only should you look at what sort of condition they are in, but also consider where they are situated. Are they going to let in a lot of natural light in the mornings? Do you have a great view, or would you be looking directly into a neighbor's kitchen? These are things that many people do not think about when buying a home in Knoxville, but they are very important features.
Under the Sink
You should be on the lookout for any potential problems in the home. One particular hotspot you need to check out is the under-sink cabinetry in the kitchen, utility room, and bathrooms. Look in these cupboards for any signs of water damage or plumbing leaks. Don't be shy about opening cupboard doors!
Electrical Outlets
When making a list of your must-have features, you will likely be thinking about how many bedrooms you need, your preferred heating system, a home office, or a large yard. However, it is important to also think about smaller features that will make day-to-day living as easy as possible. Something that is often overlooked is the number and location of the electrical outlets. Does the kitchen have enough outlets to support all of the appliances you use daily? Are their outlets where you would place your television or other electronics? This is something to take note of when buying a home in Knoxville, as you may need to budget for some rewiring if you need more outlets.
Storage Space
Storage space is very important when you are buying a home in Knoxville. Take the time to check out the closets in the home and note not just how much storage space they can offer but also where they are located. Will they be convenient for your needs? Are they accessible? Imagine yourself living in the space and think about how your belongings will fit in the available storage space.
Appliances
It should be made clear whether or not the appliances are included in the sale of the home. If they are, make sure that you take a closer look at them to see what kind of condition they are in. They should be turned on and working during the open house. If you find that they are not in good condition, or you have concerns about any of them not working properly, then this is something you will want to negotiate when making your offer.
Under The Rug
Have you ever heard the saying 'sweep it under the rug'? It means to conceal or ignore a problem in the hope that it will be forgotten. When you are buying a home in Knoxville, you will want to be sure that this is not literally happening in the home you are interested in. Lift rugs to check the flooring underneath in case it is concealing any damage. This is especially important if you notice rugs that seem out of place or oddly positioned!
Level Flooring
While we are on the topic of flooring, you may also want to check that the floors in the home are level. The easiest way to test this is to place a marble, bead, or other small round object on the floor and see if it repeatedly rolls in one specific direction, suggesting the floor tilt. Small discrepancies may not be an issue and can naturally occur as a home settles over the years, but larger slopes may indicate more significant problems that need to be looked at.
Attic Space
If you are buying a home in Knoxville with an attic space, take the time to check it out during the open house. It should be well insulated, and there should be no evidence of leaks coming from the roof.
Water Runoff
It's not just inside you need to consider when visiting an open house. Take a look at the exterior of the home as well. In particular, pay attention to the water runoff from gutters. It should always direct the water away from the foundations of the property.
In conclusion, attending open houses in Knoxville can be an exciting part of the home-buying process, but it's crucial to approach each visit with a critical eye. While the decor and staging may be captivating, it's important to focus on the fundamental aspects of the home that will impact your day-to-day living. From the condition and placement of windows to the availability of storage space and the quality of appliances, paying attention to these details can help you make an informed decision. Don't hesitate to check under sinks, test outlets, inspect flooring, and evaluate water runoff—these small steps can reveal potential issues that might otherwise go unnoticed. By staying mindful of these factors, you'll be better equipped to find a home that truly meets your needs and offers long-term value for you and your family.
--
Wright Realty is a full-service real estate concierge with a wholistic approach to buying and selling property in East Tennessee. We are your trusted advisor and keep open communication throughout your entire buying/selling process. Real Estate done "Wright" means more than just a 'transaction'.
Finding Your Property the "Wright" Way!
Visit www.realtydonewright.com or call 865-556-8599
