Fall Can Tell You a Lot About a House

Touring a home isn't only about deciding whether you like the kitchen.

You're also gathering clues about how the property has been maintained and how it may perform after you own it.

Fall happens to be a particularly useful time to look.

Changing temperatures, falling leaves and seasonal rain can reveal things that might be less obvious during a picture-perfect summer showing.

Here are several areas worth paying attention to.

Start Outside

Before walking through the front door, look at the entire property.

Notice the grading around the foundation. Ideally, water should flow away from the house rather than toward it.

Look at gutters and downspouts. Where do they discharge?

Take note of large trees, particularly branches hanging over the house, garage or neighboring property.

None of these things automatically represents a problem. They're simply part of understanding what you're purchasing.

Look for Signs of Water

Basements deserve special attention in many Chicagoland homes.

When touring, notice musty odors, staining, fresh patches of paint or visible moisture.

Ask about:

• Sump pumps
• Battery backups
• Drainage systems
• Previous water intrusion
• Foundation repairs

An inspection can provide more information later, but your first showing is an opportunity to begin asking questions.

Pay Attention to the Heating System

That furnace is about to become very important.

Look for its approximate age and ask about service history. The same goes for the water heater.

Older equipment doesn't necessarily mean you shouldn't purchase a home. It simply needs to be considered when evaluating future ownership costs.

Examine Windows and Doors

As temperatures cool, drafts may become easier to detect.

Look at window condition, condensation between panes and the operation of doors and windows.

Older windows can be perfectly functional, but buyers should understand what they are purchasing and budget accordingly.

Evaluate the Roof and Gutters

You don't need to become a roofing expert during a showing.

Look for obvious warning signs such as missing shingles, sagging gutters or staining.

Your professional inspector can evaluate these systems much more thoroughly if you move forward with the property.

Think About Leaf Management

Those gorgeous mature trees lining many Downers Grove streets are part of the area's charm.

They also come with leaves.

Lots of leaves.

Consider the maintenance associated with the property, particularly if you're moving from a condo or a home with minimal landscaping.

A beautiful yard can absolutely be worth it—just understand the lifestyle that comes with it.

Look Beyond Cosmetics

A beautiful kitchen can be renovated.

A trendy paint color can be changed.

Location, lot characteristics and major structural elements are considerably harder to alter.

Try separating cosmetic features from the fundamentals of the property.

Ask yourself whether the home works for your lifestyle and whether its long-term maintenance needs fit your budget.

Never Skip Professional Due Diligence

Your observations during a showing aren't a substitute for a professional home inspection or other appropriate specialists.

They're simply a way to become a more informed buyer.

The more carefully you observe homes, the better you'll become at recognizing meaningful differences between properties.

Final Thoughts

Fall home shopping gives buyers a unique opportunity to evaluate how a property handles changing Chicagoland weather.

Look beyond staging and finishes. Pay attention to the systems, exterior and maintenance requirements that will become yours after closing.

Buying in Downers Grove or DuPage County? We'll help you look beyond the pretty finishes and evaluate the complete property so you can make an informed decision.