When touring homes in Knoxville or elsewhere, it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of finding “the one.” But sometimes buyers focus on what they love and overlook key details that matter once you’ve moved in. The best way to avoid regrets is to slow down, take notes, and ask questions — both of your agent and, when appropriate, of the sellers or listing agent.
Here are 20+ things you’ll want to pay attention to when touring a home:
1. Major Systems & Structure
- Age and condition of the roof — shingles, flashing, gutters.
- HVAC system — type (gas/electric/heat pump), age, and service history.
- Water heater — age, size, and whether it meets your family’s needs.
- Foundation and basement/crawl space — signs of moisture, cracks, or settling.
- Windows — age, type (single/double-pane), and energy efficiency.
2. Utilities & Services
- Water source — city vs. well, and water quality if on a well.
- Sewage system — city sewer vs. septic (and if septic, ask about age, location, and maintenance records).
- Gas vs. electric — for major appliances like the stove, furnace, dryer, and water heater.
- Trash pickup, recycling, and fire coverage — confirm available services.
- City vs. county taxes — know what you’ll owe and what services are included.
3. Neighborhood & Property
- HOA rules, fees, and amenities — ask about restrictions (pets, rentals, vehicles) and benefits (pool, clubhouse, etc.).
- Flood zone status — determine if flood insurance is required.
- Property boundaries — especially important if there are fences, outbuildings, or wooded areas.
- Driveway and access — steepness, shared driveways, or easements.
- Noise and traffic — visit at different times of day to gauge.
- Commute times — drive the route to work, school, church, or shopping at the times you’d normally go to see what traffic is really like.
- Yard grade and drainage — check if water flows away from the house and if the yard is usable for your needs.
4. Inside the Home
- Appliances included — fridge, washer/dryer, and built-in items; confirm what conveys.
- Closets and storage — be realistic about whether the space meets your needs.
- Signs of water damage — stains on ceilings, around windows, or under sinks.
- Smells and air quality — sometimes pets, mold, or smoke aren’t obvious until you slow down and notice.
Timing Matters When Asking Questions
You don’t need to ask every detailed question the first time you walk through a home. In fact, doing so can sometimes be overwhelming — and even signal to the seller that you may be difficult to work with.
Instead, use your initial tour to decide whether the home feels like a potential fit. Once you’re more serious about making an offer, that’s the time to dig deeper into the details. And if you’re in a competitive situation, you may even wait until you’re under contract to confirm certain items during the inspection period.
Also, make sure to review the property disclosure form carefully. This document is prepared by the seller (and required in Knoxville/Tennessee), highlights any known issues with the home, and is something your buyer’s agent can request for you. You’ll be asked to sign it along with any offer, so it’s worth reading closely before you commit.
Keep in mind, sellers may not always know every answer — especially in older homes or if they aren’t the original owners. What matters most is deciding which details are non-negotiable for you versus which ones you can be flexible on. This mindset helps you stay focused and avoid unnecessary stress.
Pro Tip: Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions
Some details may already be in the listing or disclosure, but many are best confirmed in person. Asking questions is normal and expected — especially when you’re serious enough about a property to consider making an offer. Your agent is there to guide you, but you should also feel comfortable clarifying details directly with the seller’s side when needed.
