Taking a House Tour

"I love it": Those three words may mean you've found the right house. Or they could mean your emotions got the best of you when you stepped into the living room and saw that perfectly restored leaded bay window.

Home buyers often follow their hearts -- and they should. But when it's house-touring time, temper your passion with clear-headed thinking and a critical eye.

Consider your lifestyle and how you will use the house. Naturally, you might want a bigger dining room if you entertain a lot, and you may need a first-floor bathroom if you have small children.

Look Beyond the Decor
Don't fall for the furnishings and decor while touring a home. Some people don't realize they're captivated by the surroundings, not the home itself. Rooms can look completely different with your possessions in place.

Likewise, don't dismiss a poorly decorated house. A few changes to wall treatment and furniture can brighten a dim interior.

Beware of small closets. People tend to underestimate the amount of space needed for their belongings. Split-level designs and houses built on a slab with no basement are notoriously short on storage space.

Look for Structural Problems
Once a house meets livability standards, check its structure and systems. Most real estate agents and attorneys recommend a professional inspection before you complete the sale, but buyers can spot the more obvious trouble signs early.

General upkeep speaks volumes about how the owner has maintained the property. A quick look at the structure will tell whether its resident made regular repairs.

Plumbing, wiring, heating and air conditioning should meet minimum standards. Check that everything works, and look for signs of rust or other visible problems.

Watch out for old kitchens and bathrooms -- they're possible money pits. Gaps in the tile can mean leaks. And that avocado green stove may function, but you might want to replace it if you just can't stomach the color.

Tour the attic and basement. Cracks in the foundation can mean serious structural problems. Loose bricks around the outside of the house also may signal poor upkeep. Walk around the house and look for potential problems.

Finally, ask when the owner last replaced the roof and if there have been any leaks. Roof repair and replacement are costly, and you want to be aware of potential problems.

Keep in mind that no house is in perfect shape -- it's reasonable to expect some minor problems. However, taking a careful look at a house can help avoid disputes and disappointment after you've signed the contract.