The Door Test: Which Doors Cannot Be Open at the Same Time?

Doors seem like one of the simplest parts of a house. They open, they close, and buyers rarely give them another thought. But when several doors occupy a small area, the way they swing can create awkward little conflicts that may not become obvious until after you move in. Open the Doors TogetherDuring a showing, look for areas where multiple doors are located close together. Bathrooms, closets, laundry rooms, pantries, garages, and small hallways are particularly useful places to check. Open neighboring doors and see what happens. Does the bathroom door block the linen closet? Does a bedroom door collide…
Read More

The Shower Test: What Happens When You Turn On a Second Faucet?

Most buyers know to turn on faucets during a home tour. They check whether water flows, glance underneath sinks, and may test the shower. But a home rarely operates with only one plumbing fixture running at a time. A more revealing question is what happens when water is being used in two places at once. Test More Than One FixtureIf appropriate during your evaluation of the property, try running water at one fixture while another is already operating.For example, what happens at the shower when a nearby sink is turned on? Does the flow appear noticeably different?The goal is not…
Read More

What Happens to Your Street After Everyone Gets Home From Work?

A quiet residential street at 11 a.m. can be very appealing. Driveways are open, curbside parking is plentiful, and getting in and out of the neighborhood seems effortless. But that may not be the street you actually experience after moving in. Before buying a home, consider returning after the workday ends and seeing what happens when everyone comes home. Watch the Parking ChangeOne of the biggest differences may be street parking. During the day, many residents take their vehicles to work. By early evening, those cars are back. Households with several vehicles may fill their driveways and use curbside spaces…
Read More