One Foundation Realty

Bring this list, a flashlight, and wear shoes you can slip on/off.

• Confirm utilities are on (water, power, gas)
• Ask about ages of roof, HVAC, water heater, major upgrades
• Review seller disclosures and flag follow-ups
• Schedule licensed inspector for formal report

Curb appeal is nice, drainage is nicer.

• Grading slopes away from foundation (no standing water)
• Driveway/walkways: trip hazards, cracks, pooling
• Fencing/retaining walls: leaning, rot, loose posts
• Siding/stucco/brick: cracks, damage, wood rot
• Paint/caulking: peeling, gaps at trim and penetrations

Leaks are expensive—look up.

• Roof covering: missing/curled shingles or cracked tiles
• Flashing at chimneys/vents: rust, gaps, failed sealant
• Gutters/downspouts: clear, directing water away from house
• Attic: moisture stains, mold, daylight through roof
• Insulation depth/coverage; proper ventilation

Movement matters.

• Exterior foundation: cracks wider than 1/4 inch, bulging walls
• Interior: doors/windows sticking, sloped floors
• Crawlspace/basement: moisture, efflorescence, pests
• Framing visible: notched/over-bored joists, DIY alterations

Leaks like to hide—be nosy.

• Run multiple fixtures to test pressure; watch for drops
• Look under sinks: active leaks, stains, corrosion
• Water heater: age, TPR discharge, strapping, pan/drain
• Supply lines: material (copper/PEX/galvanized); signs of leaks
• Locate main shutoff valve

Safety first.

• Main panel: labeling, double-tapped breakers, rust
• GFCI/AFCI where required (kitchen, baths, garage, exterior, bedrooms)
• Random outlets/switches: test for power, heat, loose boxes
• Visible wiring: junction boxes covered, no open splices

Comfort + efficiency.

• Furnace/air handler: age, service stickers, unusual noise
• Air filter: size/condition; returns clean
• AC condenser: fins clear, level pad, clean coil
• Thermostat works; reasonable temp change
• Ducts: damaged, disconnected, or uninsulated runs

Walls, floors, windows—repeat.

• Ceilings/walls: stains, cracks, fresh paint patches
• Floors: soft spots, uneven areas, loose tiles/boards
• Windows: open/close/lock; broken seals (fogging)
• Doors: latch/lock; rub/bind; weatherstripping at exteriors

High-use zone deserves extra eyes.

• Cabinets/drawers function; sink base dry
• Counters/backsplash: cracks, gaps, failed caulk
• Run dishwasher; test burners/oven; microwave venting
• Sink: hot/cold, sprayer, disposal; leaks under sink
• Exhaust vents to exterior if possible

Water + time = trouble.

• Toilets: firm to floor; good flush
• Tubs/showers: grout/caulk intact; surround solid
• Exhaust fan vents to exterior
• Laundry: supply hoses; pan/drain; 240V or gas as needed

Healthy house, happy you.

• Smoke/CO detectors present & tested
• Stairs/railings secure; proper baluster spacing
• Garage: self-closing door to house; GFCI outlets
• Consider tests: radon, mold, lead paint (pre-1978)

Last check before you commit.

• Re-test key systems: hot water, HVAC, major appliances
• Operate every window/door; verify agreed repairs
• Check for new leaks after running fixtures
• Confirm included items remain (fixtures, remotes, manuals)