Viewing and Comparing Homes

He or she will make arrangements for you to see only those homes that match your requirements, so your time is well spent. Remember to record your impressions about the homes you visit.

A key benefit of working with a GMAC Real Estate Agent is that you'll be informed about homes that are new on the market or those with price changes. He or she will identify all the potential sellers in your market by working with the entire real estate community - not just those who list with GMAC Real Estate.

When visiting individual homes, your GMAC Real Estate Agent will remind you to keep several factors in mind, including:

• Do trees and shrubs appear healthy? Are large trees at least 30 feet from the house?
• Is the lot sloped for proper drainage? Are there low spots near the house?
• Do outdoor electrical outlets have ground fault current interrupters to prevent shock?
• Is the outdoor lighting adequate?
• Are there outdoor faucets or a sprinkler system?
• Are sidewalks and driveways in good condition? Will water drain off them?
• Is the house's surface in good repair? Are there cracks where materials meet at two walls or at windows and walls?
• Do windows, doors and chimney sit plumb and square?
• Is the roof free from sags and dips? Are shingles in good condition?
• Are gutters in good shape, with tight seams and do downspouts point away from the house?
• Do foundation walls have cracks larger than 1/4-inch wide?

• Is the home divided into three distinct zones for working, living and sleeping?
• Are eating areas (including those outdoors) easily accessible from the kitchen?
• Does traffic through the kitchen flow outside the work area?
• Are the stove, sink and refrigerator just steps apart in an efficient triangular configuration?
• Do open appliance doors block doorways, cabinets or each other?
• Do bedrooms have two uninterrupted wall surfaces for easy furniture arrangement?
• Are baths accessible without having to cross a bedroom or other living space?
• Does the main entry lead guests directly to the living room or make them figure out which way to go?

• Do basement walls have large cracks that indicate a shifting foundation? Mildew stains that indicate dampness/flooding? Is an unheated basement's ceiling insulated?
• Are exposed beams and joists in good condition?
• Is the attic well-insulated? Is there any evidence of water damage from a leaky roof?
• Are floors springy or are they even and sturdy?
• Are walls (particularly at door frames and windows) free from large cracks?
• Do all doors and windows work smoothly?
• Are bathroom fixtures in good condition? Does the faucet's water flow remain steady when toilets are flushed?
• Does water drain well?
• Are there enough well-placed electrical outlets in the rooms? Does the service to the house match its current electrical needs?
• Is the capacity and recovery time of the water heater adequate for your family? Does the water heater show signs of rust?
• Do kitchen appliances seem to be in good condition? Do any come with the sale? Will your appliances fit in the present spaces if need be?
• Do furnace and/or air conditioning unit(s) appear well-serviced? Is the blower quiet?

• Hire a professional building inspector to make sure the house is in sound condition. Use his or her report to make informed decisions.
• Ask your Agent if the GMAC Real Estate Home Protection Plan is available in your area. This warranty protects you in case of major mechanical system and problems with some appliances.
• Decide which flaws you can live with and which you'd prefer to have repaired. You may also be able to refinance some repairs in your mortgage.