Site visits before moving into your new home are a valuable opportunity to gather the information you need for planning and decision-making. With limited time—often just an hour or two per visit—it’s crucial to make every moment count. Below, I’ve compiled my professional tips to help you prepare and focus on the key aspects to observe during your visit.
Preparation is Key
Before heading to the site, gather the right tools and plan your approach. Here’s a checklist of items to bring and tips to maximize efficiency:
Invest in a Laser Measure: A laser measuring tool is a time-saver, allowing you to quickly and accurately measure room dimensions. This is essential when time is limited.
Graph Paper and Clipboard: Use graph paper to sketch out each room’s floor plan. Focus on one room per page for clarity and label each page with the room name.
Colour-Coded Pens: Use a black pen for outlining floor plans and switch to red or blue for dimensions. This prevents confusion when reviewing your notes later.
Bring Relevant Samples: If selecting paint colors, bring fabric swatches, upholstery covers, or cushions from your furniture. This allows you to evaluate how the colours interact with the room’s natural lighting. Also, bring flooring samples if you’re considering replacements to see how they look in situ.
What to Measure and Observe
Room Dimensions: Start with overall dimensions for each room. Record key measurements such as ceiling height and the placement of doors and windows.
Lighting: Note the types and placements of lighting fixtures in each room, such as center ceiling lights or pot lights. Use abbreviations for quick reference (e.g., “CL” for center lights).
Window Details: If time permits, measure the inside dimensions of the windows, including the width of casings and baseboards. This is helpful for planning window treatments or trim updates.
Document Everything
After completing measurements for each room, take extensive photos from every angle. Then, switch your camera to video mode to capture even more detail. Videos often reveal nuances that static photos can miss, such as subtle changes in light and shadow.
Items to Bring to Your Site Visit
Graph paper
Clipboard
Measuring tape
Laser tape measure (if available)
Black pen (for outlines)
Red or blue pen (for dimensions)
Furniture swatches or upholstery samples
Paint deck or swatches
Flooring samples
By preparing thoroughly and focusing on these key tasks, you can maximize the value of your site visits and make informed decisions about your new home. Happy planning!
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