What to Look for When Touring a Home in Seattle: Your Top 10 Checklist
Touring homes can be exciting, but it’s also easy to get swept up in curb appeal and staging. As a Seattle-based real estate agent, I help buyers stay grounded and focused on what really matters — especially in a fast-paced market like ours.
Whether you're viewing a charming craftsman in Green Lake or a modern townhome in Capitol Hill, here’s your must-have checklist of what to look for when touring a home in Seattle.
Top 10 Things to Look For When Touring a Home in Seattle
Roof Condition – Seattle’s wet weather means roof maintenance is critical. Look for moss buildup, missing shingles, or signs of sagging.
Window Quality & Insulation – Are the windows double- or triple-paned? Do you feel drafts? Proper insulation is key to keeping heating bills in check.
Basement & Crawlspace Moisture – Water intrusion is common in older Seattle homes. Check for musty smells, water stains, or sump pumps.
Foundation Issues – Uneven floors, cracks in the walls, or sticky doors can be red flags for settling or foundation damage.
Natural Light – Overcast skies are the norm here. Pay attention to how much natural light each room gets — especially in the darker winter months.
Heating System Type & Efficiency – Does the home use baseboard heaters, forced air, or a heat pump? Energy-efficient HVAC systems are a huge plus.
Noise Levels – Seattle has pockets of quiet neighborhoods and others near busy streets, light rail, or flight paths. Step outside and listen.
Storage Space – Think beyond closets. Is there room for your outdoor gear, bikes, and seasonal items? Look for garages, sheds, or attic space.
Electrical Panel & Outlets – Older homes may have outdated wiring or limited outlet capacity. Take a peek at the breaker box if accessible.
General Layout & Flow – Consider how the home lives. Does the floor plan work for your daily routines? Is there a logical flow between spaces?
Bonus Tips
Bring a flashlight to check under sinks and in dark storage areas.
Take photos or notes as you go — homes can blur together quickly.
Don’t be afraid to test faucets, open closets, or check water pressure.
As your Seattle real estate partner, I guide you through every step of the buying process — from the first tour to closing day. Let’s make sure you feel confident and informed with every home you see.
Click here to learn more about my buyer services. Reach out when you're ready to start touring!