A home tour is your opportunity to go beyond the glossy photos and truly assess if a property is the right fit. It's not just about aesthetics; it's about evaluating functionality, condition, and how it aligns with your lifestyle. For homebuyers in Sri Lanka, where older homes are common and specific climatic factors (like monsoon rains and humidity) are relevant, a thorough inspection is even more crucial.
Here's a comprehensive checklist of what to look for during a home tour:
I. General Impressions & "Feel"
Overall Layout and Flow:
Walk through each room. Does the layout make sense for your daily life?
Is there a good flow between living, dining, and kitchen areas?
Are bedrooms private enough? How are bathrooms positioned?
Imagine your furniture in the space – will it fit comfortably?
Natural Light & Ventilation:
Crucial in Sri Lanka's climate. Observe how much natural light enters each room.
Are there enough windows and openings? Do they face the right direction (north/south for less direct sun, east for morning light, west for evening)?
Can you open windows to create cross-ventilation? Good airflow is vital for comfort and to prevent dampness.
Ambience and Noise:
Listen for external noise (traffic, neighbors, industrial sounds). Visit at different times of day/week if possible.
Notice internal noise (creaky floors, plumbing sounds).
Overall Cleanliness and Maintenance:
A well-maintained home, even if older, indicates responsible ownership. Look for signs of neglect.
II. Exterior Inspection (Walk around the entire property)
Roof:
Look for missing, cracked, or displaced tiles/sheets.
Check for sagging areas, which could indicate structural issues.
Inspect gutters and downspouts: Are they clear of debris? Do they direct water away from the foundation effectively? Poor drainage can lead to major damp issues.
Walls and Foundation:
Cracks: Look for cracks in the exterior walls. Hairline cracks are often cosmetic, but large, jagged, or horizontal cracks could indicate structural problems.
Dampness/Stains: Look for efflorescence (white, powdery residue) on brickwork or stains, which indicate moisture penetration.
Peeling Paint/Render: Could be a sign of underlying moisture.
Foundation: Are there visible cracks in the foundation? Is the ground sloping towards the house (bad for drainage)?
Doors and Windows:
Check their condition: Do they open and close smoothly?
Look for signs of rot, rust, or warping, especially in wooden frames.
Inspect the quality of the glass and any weather stripping.
Are they secure?
Garden/Landscaping (if applicable):
Is the garden manageable for you?
Are trees too close to the house, potentially affecting the foundation or roof?
Check for proper drainage to prevent water pooling near the house.
Drainage and Water Management:
Crucial in Sri Lanka. Observe if the land slopes away from the house.
Are there proper drains and run-off channels to manage heavy rainfall?
Look for signs of standing water or soggy areas around the foundation.
Pest Control:
Look for signs of termite activity (mud tubes, discarded wings), ant trails, or other pest infestations, especially around wooden structures.
III. Interior Inspection (Room by Room)
Walls and Ceilings:
Dampness and Mold: Look for water stains, discoloration, peeling paint, bubbling plaster, or a musty smell. Check corners, around windows, and under bathrooms upstairs. (Common issue in Sri Lankan climate).
Cracks: Similar to exterior walls, look for significant cracks.
Bulges: Walls that bulge outwards can indicate structural issues.
Paint Condition: Fresh paint might hide issues, but extensive peeling could suggest underlying problems.
Flooring:
Check for unevenness, excessive creaking, loose tiles, or damaged floorboards.
Look for signs of water damage on wooden floors or swelling in laminate.
Kitchen:
Countertops and Cabinets: Check condition, wear and tear, functionality of drawers and doors.
Appliances: If included, check if they are in working order.
Sinks and Taps: Check for leaks, water pressure, and drainage.
Storage Space: Is there enough cupboard and pantry space?
Bathrooms:
Water Pressure: Test all taps and showers for good water pressure and hot water availability.
Leaks and Drainage: Look under sinks for leaks. Flush toilets to check their function. Check for slow drains.
Tiles and Grout: Look for cracked tiles, crumbling grout, or mold/mildew, which can indicate water penetration.
Ventilation: Is there an extractor fan or good natural ventilation to prevent damp and mold?
Plumbing:
Ask about the age and type of the plumbing system.
Check for any visible leaks or corrosion around pipes.
Electrical System:
Lights & Switches: Flick on/off all light switches.
Outlets: Bring a phone charger or a small device to test a few outlets.
Circuit Breaker: Ask to see the main electrical panel (circuit breaker box). Note if it looks old or has fuse boxes instead of modern breakers (could indicate outdated wiring).
Exposed Wires: Look for any exposed or frayed wires.
Age of Wiring: For older homes, consider that wiring might need upgrading, which is a significant cost.
Storage:
Assess cupboard space, built-in wardrobes, and any attic/loft or basement storage.
Security:
Check the condition of external doors and windows. Are they secure?
Are there security grilles, gates, or an alarm system? This is often a significant consideration in Sri Lanka.
Utilities:
Ask about the type of cooking gas (cylinder or piped), water supply (municipal, well water), and garbage disposal system.
Inquire about average utility bills (electricity, water).
IV. Crucial Questions to Ask
Why is the seller moving? (Sometimes reveals underlying issues like noisy neighbors or structural problems).
How old is the house? (Impacts potential for wear and tear, and need for upgrades).
When was the roof last replaced/inspected?
Are there any known issues with plumbing, electrical, or the roof?
What's included in the sale? (Appliances, light fixtures, curtains, etc.)
How old are major appliances/systems (water heater, AC units)?
Have there been any major renovations, and were they permitted?
What are the average monthly utility costs?
How is the water pressure, especially during peak hours?
What are the neighbors like? (Agent may not answer directly but their reaction might be telling).
Are there any known boundary disputes? (Crucial in Sri Lanka).
Tips for Your Tour:
Bring a Checklist: Use this guide to ensure you don't miss anything.
Take Photos/Videos: These will help you remember details and compare properties later.
Bring a Friend or Family Member: A fresh pair of eyes might notice things you miss.
Visit Multiple Times: Try to see the house at different times of day to assess light, noise, and traffic.
Trust Your Gut: If something feels off, it probably is.
Don't Be Afraid to Ask: Don't hesitate to ask the agent or seller questions.
Consider a Professional Inspection: If you're seriously considering an older property, factor in the cost of a professional structural engineer's inspection before making a final offer. This is money well spent.
By being meticulous and systematic during your home tour, you'll gain a much clearer picture of the property's true condition and whether it's the right home for you.