How to use this checklist: Walk through each section as you tour the home. Check off items you've verified. Anything that raises a concern — write a note. After the tour, review your notes before you leave the block. Your memory fades fast when you're seeing multiple homes.
Works on any device — choose "Save as PDF" in your print dialog
Or use the interactive version — fill it out and email yourself your notes →
01
Before You Walk In
Street & Property First Impression
Address noted and confirmed against listing
Listed price confirmed — check for any recent price reductions on Zillow/Realtor.com history
Days on market checked — longer than 30 days warrants a question
First impression of the street and immediate neighborhood
Traffic volume on the street — note the time of day
What's adjacent to the property? (commercial building, highway, busy road?)
Sidewalks, street trees, and walkability feel
02
Structure & Exterior
Outside the Home
Roof condition visible from the street — sagging, missing shingles, moss growth?
Gutters clear and properly attached to the fascia
Foundation visible — any cracks, bowing, or settling?
Grading slopes away from the house (critical for water drainage)
Driveway and walkway condition — major cracks or heaving?
Garage door operates properly (ask to test it)
Exterior paint or siding condition — peeling, rot, gaps?
Deck or patio condition — soft boards, deteriorating ledger board?
03
Inside — First Impression
As Soon as You Enter
Any unusual smells? (musty, mold, pet, fresh paint masking something?)
Water stains on ceilings or walls — even faint yellow rings matter
Floors level? Walk the perimeter — uneven areas can signal settling
Natural light — which direction does the home face?
Ceiling height and flow of the floor plan
Any soft or springy spots in the flooring?
04
Kitchen
Kitchen Inspection Points
Cabinet condition, hardware, and storage capacity
Countertop condition — chips, cracks, stains, delamination?
Appliances included in the sale? (confirm with listing)
Run the kitchen faucet — water pressure and drainage speed
Open under-sink cabinet — any water damage, staining, or active drip?
Range hood vents to the outside (not just recirculating)?
Dishwasher pulls out and appears functional
05
Bathrooms
Every Bathroom — Run Through Each
Water pressure in shower — turn on full hot and cold
Flush the toilet — does it run? Refill time is normal; constant running is not
Caulk and grout condition around tub and shower surround — cracking = potential water intrusion
Any soft spots in the floor near the toilet base (common sign of a slow leak)
Exhaust fan works and vents to the outside
Check under vanity cabinet for any water damage or staining
06
Bedrooms
Each Bedroom
Closet storage — does it fit your needs?
Window condition — single or double pane? Any condensation between panes = failed seal
Windows open and lock properly
Basement bedrooms: are windows egress-compliant? (large enough to escape through)
Ceiling fan or light fixture present and operational
07
Basement
Basement — This One Matters in St. Louis
Any water stains or efflorescence on walls (white mineral deposits = past water intrusion)
Active moisture — run your hand along the base of foundation walls
Sump pump present? Ask when it was last serviced
Radon mitigation system present? (common and important in Missouri)
Any musty smell in the basement — even subtle
Finished areas: check for soft drywall near floor level (bottom 6" — first sign of water)
Visible structural members (joists, beams) — any rot, pest damage, or improper repairs?
08
Mechanical Systems
Ask the Listing Agent About Each of These
Age of the roof — and any known repairs or insurance claims
Age and type of HVAC — furnace + A/C, or heat pump? Last serviced?
Age of water heater — typical lifespan is 10–12 years
Electrical panel — circuit breakers or old fuse box? Any double-tapping?
Type of plumbing — copper, PVC, or galvanized/polybutylene (older, may need replacement)
Window type — single or double pane? Age?
Any recent major repairs — roof, foundation, systems? Ask for permits if so.
St. Louis note on electrical: Many older St. Louis homes (especially in South City, Kirkwood, and Webster Groves) have original fuse boxes or outdated wiring. This isn't necessarily a dealbreaker, but it's a negotiating point — and your inspector will flag it specifically.
09
Questions to Ask at the Open House
Ask the Listing Agent or Agent at the Door
- →Why is the seller moving?
- →How long have they lived here?
- →Have there been any major repairs or updates? Any permits pulled?
- →Any known issues the seller is required to disclose?
- →What do they love most about living here?
- →How long has it been on the market? Any price changes?
- →Are there any offers already in or expected?
- →What's included in the sale? (appliances, fixtures, window treatments?)
- →What's the seller's preferred closing timeline?
- →Any HOA, special assessments, or deed restrictions?
My Notes for This Home
Address: _________________________________ Date: _____________
Overall impression (circle): Love it · Like it · Pass Would I come back? Y / N
Ready to tour? We'll come with you.
Shawn & Megan know exactly what to look for — and what to ask. When you're ready to see homes, we'll be there. We move fast, tell you the truth, and run the numbers before you make an offer.