10 Things Buyers Always Forget During a Showing (But Regret Later)

Let’s be real: buying a home is exciting — but showings can be overwhelming. You're trying to take in the layout, figure out where your furniture might go, and imagine yourself living there... all while your Realtor is chatting and other buyers might be walking around too.

And in the middle of all that, it’s easy to forget a few key details that can come back to haunt you later.

We’ve toured hundreds (okay, thousands) of homes across Ottawa, and these are the things buyers consistently forget to check — and then wish they had.

1. Where does the snow go?
This one is especially important in Ottawa. Does the driveway have space to pile snow without blocking your garage or walkways? If you’re looking at a shared laneway or tight row of homes, will you be negotiating snowbank boundaries with your neighbours every winter? It might seem like a small thing… until the first storm hits.

2. Any signs of water in the basement?
In the moment, buyers tend to look at layout and finishes — but a musty smell, stains on the foundation, or even a quiet dehumidifier in the corner can be signs of moisture problems. Basement repairs are not cheap. Don’t skip this check.

3. How old are the windows, and can you feel a draft?
Double check the windows — not just for style, but condition. Are they newer vinyl or older wood frames? Do they open and close easily? Do you feel cold air coming through in the winter or direct sun blazing through with no coverage in summer? Energy efficiency matters for both comfort and cost.

4. Where are the closets? Are they actually functional?
In some older homes (and even some modern ones), closet space can be an afterthought. Is there a front hall closet? Is the bedroom closet deep enough for more than a few hangers? Will you need to buy wardrobes or add shelving right away?

5. What’s the natural light like at the times you’re usually home?
A 10 a.m. showing on a sunny day might make a house feel bright and airy — but what does it feel like at 7 p.m. in the winter? South-facing windows, nearby buildings, and even tree coverage can all affect how much light you’ll get in your most-used spaces.

6. Cell service and outlets — is this home stuck in 2005?
It sounds basic, but check your phone. Can you make a call or load a page? That’s especially important in basements, condos, and homes in more rural parts of Ottawa. While you’re at it, look around for outlets — are there enough for your lifestyle, or will you be running extension cords from every direction?

7. What can you hear?
That quiet street during a weekday morning showing might turn into a traffic cut-through at 5 p.m. Are there barking dogs next door? Is there a nearby fire station? Don’t be afraid to ask — or better yet, drive back at different times of day before making an offer.

8. How tight is the parking… really?
Sure, the listing says “two parking spaces,” but are they tandem? Can two actual vehicles fit without one blocking the other? If it’s street parking, is it year-round or just seasonal? Parking can make or break a home for many buyers — especially if you have guests or roommates.

9. What’s the deal with the furnace and AC?
Find out the age and condition of the mechanicals. Ask where the filters go, whether the AC is central or a window unit, and whether you’ll be sweating through your first summer. These systems are big-ticket items — and buyers often forget to pay attention to them until they stop working.

10. Have you spent time in the neighbourhood?
We always recommend coming back after hours — walk the block on a Saturday night or swing by during school pickup. Do the streets feel quiet or chaotic? Are the neighbours friendly? Does it match the vibe you’re looking for long term?

Final Thoughts
Showings move fast. Emotions are high. And most people don't walk in with a checklist.

That’s where we come in.

If you’re house hunting in Ottawa this year, reach out to our team — we’ll help you prepare for every showing with the same care we’d use if we were buying the home ourselves. No pressure, no sales-y stuff — just smart, local advice from people who actually live here too.

Want a free home showing checklist? Send us a message and we’ll get it over to you before your next tour.