Buyers Guide » Searching for a Home

Your REALTOR® will give you a list of properties for sale that fit your requirements and he or she will setup appointments to view houses. You can also use our Property Search feature on this web site or the newspaper version, RealtyLink In Print, for properties. Let your REALTOR® know about any properties you find in your search as he or she has access to the complete information and can provide greater detail on a property for sale.

While you are visiting various homes for sale it's a good idea to make notes about each house you're seriously considering so you can remember the details about a property. Use my Home Hunting Checklist to help you keep track of your impressions.

When looking at a house you need to consider several factors:

• Exterior Condition - Examine the condition of the siding, roof, gutters, paint, chimneys, windows, decks and patios. Fixing up the exterior of a house, especially adding a new roof, can be expensive.
• Interior - Is it large enough? What's the condition of the bathroom(s) and kitchen? What kind of flooring is under the carpet? Do the rooms and hallways have sufficient lighting? Is there enough storage?
• Structural Problems - Uneven floors and large cracks can indicate problems. Examine the outside of the house and see if there is any visible sinking.
• Mechanical Systems - Find out the age of the heating, plumbing and electrical systems. Consider if you will have to update any of these systems.
• Energy Efficiency - Check to see if the house is insulated and whether the windows are single or double paned. Older houses with no insulation and single-pane windows have greater heating costs.
• Basement / Drainage - Check for leaks, cracks, water stains and mold in the basement. They could indicate poor outside drainage. Make sure there is adequate drainage around the house.
• Water Pressure - Turn on the taps or flush the toilet to make sure there is high water pressure.
• Pests - Ask whether there have been problems with insects or rodents. Is there evidence of damage?
• Neighbourhood - Look at the condition of the houses in the neighbourhood. Ask whether there are noise problems or unruly neighbours. How close is the property to schools, community centres, shopping and other amenities?
• Zoning - Ask your REALTOR® about the zoning for the property? Are there any restrictive covenants or easements?

For additional considerations for condominium buyers, read the RealtyLink In Print article:

• Finding a Sound and Solid Strata Property.