Essential Tips for Touring a Home: What to Look For

What to Look for When Touring a Home

Touring a home is one of the most exciting steps in the homebuying process. It’s your opportunity to walk through a space and imagine your life unfolding there. But beyond the surface appeal—the fresh paint, the charming details, the staged furniture—there are important things you should be evaluating to ensure the home is the right fit for you in the long run.

As a REALTOR® with CENTURY 21® Northstar in Portland, I’ve walked countless clients through homes in every part of the city. Whether you’re eyeing a craftsman bungalow in Southeast, a mid-century gem in the West Hills, or a sleek condo in the Pearl District, I’m here to guide you through what to look for on a tour—beyond just what looks pretty on Instagram.

Here’s a deep dive into what to pay attention to when touring a home, whether it’s your first showing or your fifth.

1. The Neighborhood: Location First, Always

Before you even step inside, take a good look around the neighborhood. Drive or walk the surrounding blocks. Ask yourself:

Is the street quiet or busy?
Are the neighboring homes well-kept?
Is there easy access to public transportation?
Where are the nearest grocery stores, cafes, and parks?

In Portland, neighborhoods each have a distinct vibe. The laid-back feel of Sellwood is different from the urban energy of the Alberta Arts District. Consider how the location aligns with your lifestyle—your commute, your favorite weekend activities, your sense of community.

2. Curb Appeal and Exterior Condition

First impressions matter, and the exterior of the home can tell you a lot about how well it’s been maintained. Look at:

The roof: Are there missing shingles? Moss buildup?
The siding: Is it clean, cracked, or peeling?
The gutters: Are they sagging or clogged?
The foundation: Any visible cracks?
Landscaping: Is the yard maintained or overgrown?

These details might seem minor, but they can hint at underlying issues or deferred maintenance that could be costly later.

3. Entryway and First Impressions Inside

Once inside, pause for a moment. How does the space feel? Trust your gut—do you feel comfortable and welcome? Then start evaluating:

Odors: A musty smell could indicate mold or mildew. A strong air freshener could be masking something.
Temperature: Is it unusually hot or cold? That could be a sign of HVAC issues or poor insulation.
Flooring: Are there signs of warping, water damage, or unevenness?
Walls and ceilings: Look for cracks, stains, or signs of past repairs.

Small flaws can be fixed, but patterns of neglect or cover-ups should be noted.

4. Layout and Flow

How a home is laid out affects how it feels day to day. Ask yourself:

Does the flow make sense?
Are rooms connected in a way that suits your lifestyle?
Are there awkward transitions or wasted space?
Do you feel cramped or comfortable?

Sometimes older Portland homes have funky layouts due to past additions or remodels. While charm is great, usability matters too.

5. Kitchen: The Heart of the Home

Kitchens are one of the most used (and most expensive to renovate) parts of a home. As you tour:

Check the appliances: Are they modern and functioning?
Open cabinets and drawers: Is there enough storage?
Look at countertops: Are they clean and durable?
Examine plumbing under the sink: Any signs of leaks?

If a kitchen needs a major remodel, factor that into your budget and your timeline. But if it just needs a fresh coat of paint or some hardware updates, that’s usually manageable.

6. Bathrooms: Details Matter

Bathrooms should feel clean and functional. Look beyond aesthetics:

Water pressure: Turn on the taps and the shower.
Ventilation: Is there a window or fan to prevent mold?
Tile and caulking: Are there signs of mildew or cracking?
Under the sink: Any leaks or water damage?

Bathrooms are another area where upgrades can get pricey quickly, so know what you’re walking into.

7. Bedrooms and Closet Space

The number and size of bedrooms will be a big factor in your decision. During your tour:

Visualize furniture: Will your bed and dresser fit?
Storage: Are the closets spacious enough for your needs?
Windows: Is there natural light? What’s the view?
Noise levels: Is the room quiet and restful?

Remember, a bedroom can look spacious when it’s staged with minimal furniture—but always think about your real-life setup.

8. Windows, Doors, and Insulation

These elements impact comfort, security, and energy efficiency. Look for:

Drafts around windows and doors.
Double or triple-pane glass for insulation.
Proper locking mechanisms.
Ease of opening and closing.

In Portland’s climate, well-sealed windows and good insulation make a big difference when it comes to heating and cooling bills.

9. Basement and Attic: Hidden Clues

These areas often reveal more than the main living spaces. In the basement:

Is it dry or damp?
Are there signs of water intrusion or mold?
Are the beams and joists in good condition?
Is the foundation solid?

In the attic:

Is there insulation?
Are there signs of pests or moisture?
Is the roof structure sound?

Even if these spaces aren’t finished, they offer insights into the home’s overall health.

10. Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Systems

You won’t be able to see every mechanical detail during a tour, but you can ask questions and look for hints.

Electrical panel: Is it modern or outdated?
Outlets: Are there enough, and do they work?
HVAC: Is there a functioning furnace or AC?
Plumbing: Do all the faucets and toilets function properly?

Older homes in Portland sometimes have knob-and-tube wiring or galvanized plumbing—both of which can be expensive to replace.

11. Natural Light and Noise Levels

Pay attention to how much natural light the home gets throughout the day and what kind of ambient noise you hear.

Is the home bright and airy or dark and cave-like?
Are there nearby freeways, train tracks, or bars that create noise?
Are you near an airport or flight path?

You can change paint colors, but you can’t move a freeway.

12. Storage and Utility Spaces

Is there a garage? A shed? A laundry room?

Is the garage spacious enough for your car and storage?
Is there a dedicated laundry area with hookups?
Are there built-in shelves, pantries, or attic storage?

These may seem like secondary concerns, but they often make the difference between a home that works and one that frustrates.

13. Signs of DIY Work or Cover-Ups

Look out for patch jobs or mismatched finishes.

Does one wall have fresh paint while others don’t?
Do the floors change type or height between rooms?
Are there oddly placed light switches or outlets?

Sometimes cosmetic updates are just that—cosmetic. But sometimes they cover up bigger issues. A good inspector will find them, but being aware during your tour is smart.

14. Your Emotional Response: Does It Feel Like “You”?

While practical considerations are crucial, don’t ignore your emotional response.

Can you imagine living here comfortably?
Does the space inspire you or stress you out?
Can you see yourself here for years to come?

Portland homes have tons of personality. Don’t be afraid to fall in love—but fall in love with your eyes open.

15. Questions to Ask Your Agent (That’s Me!)

When touring with me, feel free to ask:

How long has the home been on the market?
Are there any known issues or disclosures?
Has it had recent updates or renovations?
What do the utilities typically cost?
What’s the seller’s timeline?

Part of my job is to help you uncover what you can’t see—so always ask.

Final Thoughts: Touring with Confidence

Home tours are exciting, but they can also be overwhelming—especially in Portland’s fast-paced market. My role as your REALTOR® is to help you balance emotion with logic, and to make sure you’re equipped to make the right decision for your lifestyle, your budget, and your future.

There’s no perfect home, but there is a perfect home for you. And when you’re ready to find it, I’ll be right here to help you through every step.

If you’re ready to start touring homes in Portland—or if you just want to talk about what neighborhoods might be a fit for you—reach out anytime. I’d love to help you navigate the market with clarity, honesty, and a little bit of fun.