New Homebuyer Checklist
Buying a home is exciting. It’s also one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make. For first-time buyers in Seattle, Bellevue, Bellingham, Tacoma, and the greater Puget Sound, knowing what to look out for can save you thousands and a lot of stress.
Homeownership isn’t a one-time event. It’s a journey. This checklist is designed to help you start that journey informed, confident, and prepared.
✅ New Homebuyer Checklist: Things to Look Out For
Use this checklist before you buy—and again after you move in.
🏠 Roof & Gutters
☐ Missing, cracked, or curling shingles
☐ Sagging or leaking gutters
☐ Debris buildup (common in Seattle’s rainy climate)
Why it matters: Roof and drainage issues are a leading cause of water damage in homes in the Pacific Northwest. As you know, it rains here occasionally.
🧱 Foundation & Structure
☐ Cracks wider than a pencil
☐ Uneven floors
☐ Doors or windows that stick
Why it matters: Structural movement can indicate costly repairs if left unaddressed. We have multiple specialists if you need additional assistance on our Need A Contractor page.
💧 Drainage & Grading
☐ Soil slopes away from the house
☐ No standing water near the foundation
☐ Downspouts discharge several feet away
Why it matters: Poor drainage is a major issue in Seattle and Bellevue due to rainfall. Moving water away from the house will help with erosion and any potential structural damage.
🚰 Plumbing
☐ Consistent water pressure
☐ No leaks under sinks
☐ No corrosion on visible pipes
☐ Sewer line condition known (especially in older homes)
Why it matters: Water is one of the biggest issues in a home. Over time, water can cause significant damage to the house, which can be very costly. Sewer lines can also become very expensive to repair. I recommend evaluating your sewer line, regardless of the home’s age, every 3 to 5 years by having a Sewer Scope performed. Book here for your sewer scope.
⚡ Electrical
☐ GFCI outlets in kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoors
☐ No exposed wiring
☐ Electrical panel not outdated
Why it matters: Simple things like a GFI can possibly save a life
🔥 Heating & Cooling
☐ Age of your furnace (Typical life is between 15 to 20 years)
☐ System heats evenly
☐ Regular servicing documented
Why it matters: Regular servicing of heating and cooling units can extend equipment life.
🧊 Attic & Insulation
☐ Insulation evenly distributed
☐ No signs of moisture
☐ Adequate ventilation
🕳 Crawlspace or Basement
☐ No standing water
☐ Vapor barrier intact
☐ No strong musty odors
Pro tip: Crawlspaces are critical in the Puget Sound region due to moisture.
🚪 Windows & Doors
☐ Open and close properly
☐ No fogged or broken seals
☐ Minimal drafts
🚨 Safety Items
☐ Smoke detectors installed
☐ Carbon monoxide detectors installed
☐ Secure stair railings
🛠 Top 20 Home Maintenance Checklist for New Homeowners
These are the must-know maintenance items every homeowner should follow to protect their investment.
📋 Comprehensive Home Maintenance Checklist
☐ Change HVAC filters every 1–3 months
☐ Clean gutters twice a year (or more in fall)
☐ Test smoke & carbon monoxide detectors every 6 months
☐ Flush water heater annually
☐ Check under sinks for leaks quarterly
☐ Run unused fixtures monthly
☐ Seal exterior cracks and gaps
☐ Trim vegetation away from siding and roof
☐ Visually inspect the roof after major storms
☐ Clean bathroom exhaust fans yearly
☐ Inspect and replace failing caulk
☐ Test GFCI outlets monthly
☐ Keep crawlspaces dry and ventilated
☐ Locate and label the main water shutoff
☐ Monitor water pressure
☐ Clean dryer vents annually (fire prevention)
☐ Inspect siding and exterior paint
☐ Maintain proper drainage around the foundation
☐ Service heating systems annually
☐ Keep a home maintenance log
🧭 Homeownership Is a Journey, Not a One-Time Event
No home is perfect, new or old. The goal isn’t to fix everything immediately. The goal is to understand your home, maintain it consistently, and address small issues before they become big problems.
Homes in Seattle and Bellevue face unique challenges: rain, moisture, aging infrastructure, and seasonal weather. Staying proactive is the best way to protect your home and your wallet.
Final Thought
A professional home inspection isn’t about fear—it’s about clarity. Whether you’re buying your first home or your fifth, understanding the condition of the property helps you move forward with confidence.
Homeownership is a long game. Start smart. Stay informed. Enjoy the journey. Love the journey!
