Touring display homes is an exciting part of the home-buying process, allowing you to see firsthand what your future home could look like. However, these homes are often designed to impress, with impeccable staging, premium materials, and perfect lighting meant to dazzle prospective buyers. But beneath the surface, hidden flaws could be lurking. To avoid potential pitfalls, you’ll need to look beyond the aesthetics and carefully evaluate key aspects of the home.
Here’s a guide on what to watch for to ensure you’re making a sound investment.
Check for Cracks and Structural Issues
Even the most beautiful homes can have structural problems. Small cracks in walls or ceilings may seem harmless, but they can be a warning sign of underlying issues such as foundation settling or structural stress.
What to Inspect:
- Walls and ceilings: Look for cracks, especially around windows, doors, and corners. Vertical cracks are often harmless, but horizontal or diagonal ones may indicate more serious problems.
- Floors: Check for uneven flooring or gaps between the floorboards and walls.
- Doors and windows: If they stick or don’t close properly, it could signal shifting foundations.
If you spot anything concerning, don’t be afraid to ask the builder about it or request a professional inspection before committing.
Test for Proper Ventilation
Good ventilation is essential for maintaining air quality and preventing moisture-related issues like mold and mildew. Display homes often smell fresh and clean, but that doesn’t always reflect the long-term ventilation performance of the house.
What to Do:
- Open windows: Ensure they open easily and provide proper airflow.
- Check for exhaust fans: Kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms should have working exhaust fans to prevent excess moisture.
- Look for signs of moisture: Musty smells, water stains, or condensation on windows could indicate poor ventilation.
Improper ventilation can lead to long-term problems, so make sure the home’s systems are designed to keep air circulating effectively.
Inspect the Plumbing System
Display homes typically have fully functional plumbing fixtures, but that doesn’t mean the entire system is without flaws. Poor plumbing can lead to leaks, water damage, and costly repairs down the line.
Key Areas to Check:
- Faucets and showers: Turn on the water to test water pressure and check for any unusual noises.
- Toilets: Flush them to see if they refill properly without any signs of leaks.
- Under sinks: Look for signs of water damage or mold, which could indicate leaks.
- Drainage: Ensure that sinks and tubs drain quickly and efficiently.
Don’t hesitate to ask about the type of pipes used in the construction, as cheaper materials may be prone to leaks and corrosion over time.
Assess the Quality of Finishes
Builders often showcase premium finishes in display homes, but some may cut corners by using low-quality materials in areas that aren’t immediately noticeable.
What to Examine:
- Cabinets and drawers: Open and close them to ensure they operate smoothly and are built to last.
- Countertops: Check for signs of scratches, chips, or poorly sealed edges.
- Flooring: Inspect for loose tiles, uneven surfaces, or poorly installed seams.
- Paint and trim: Look closely for uneven paint lines, bubbling, or gaps around trim and baseboards.
If you’re considering a specific home model, ask whether the materials used in the display are standard or upgrades.
Electrical and Lighting Checks
Proper electrical work is essential for safety and convenience. While display homes often have impressive lighting setups, you’ll want to ensure that the electrical system is reliable and meets your needs.
What to Test:
- Outlets: Bring a small device, like a phone charger, to test outlets throughout the home.
- Light switches: Turn lights on and off to check for any flickering or delayed responses.
- Circuit panel: Ask to see the circuit breaker and verify that it’s up to code.
Make sure there are enough outlets in key areas like the kitchen, living room, and bedrooms to accommodate your lifestyle.
Don’t Overlook Outdoor Areas
The exterior of the home is just as important as the interior when evaluating potential problems. Cracks in the driveway, poorly graded landscaping, or inadequate drainage can all lead to expensive repairs later.
What to Look For:
- Drainage systems: Check if water flows away from the house to avoid foundation damage.
- Roof and gutters: Look for signs of wear, sagging, or blockages.
- Outdoor fixtures: Test outdoor lights and water spigots to ensure they’re working correctly.
By thoroughly inspecting both the inside and outside of the property, you’ll be better prepared to identify any hidden flaws. Touring display homes can be exciting, but it’s essential to balance admiration with careful scrutiny to ensure you’re making a smart investment.
