What to look at during a showing - and what to ignore

Showings are designed to make you feel something. Balance that with a mechanical pass through the house. In the basement, look for staining at the base of walls, efflorescence, fresh paint in odd places, and the age labels on the furnace and water heater. Check the electrical panel for capacity and for any signs of amateur work.

Outside, look at grading away from the foundation, downspout discharge, roof shingle condition, window frames and any settling around the porch or garage.

Ignore paint colour, staging furniture and light fixtures entirely - those are cheap to change. Layout, ceiling height, natural light, lot orientation and noise are the things you are stuck with.