How to Tell If a Home Has Been Updated Well — A Complete Buyer’s Guide
Over the years, I’ve guided clients through Gulf Coast properties—some truly well-renovated, others... less so. Just because a home looks shiny and staged doesn’t mean the work behind the walls is sound. So when a home is labeled as "updated," I encourage my clients to look closer.
Below is my personal checklist of what I look for to determine whether a home has been updated thoughtfully, safely, and to last.
Electrical Panel: Function Before Finish
Start in the place most buyers overlook: the electrical panel. A modern home update begins with safety and functionality.
Look for:
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Breakers, not fuses
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At least 200-amp capacity in larger homes
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Clearly labeled circuits
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No outdated or recalled brands (like Zinsco or Federal Pacific)
Kitchen Cabinets: Painted or Premium?
Kitchens are often a home's biggest showpiece—but dig deeper than the paint.
Signs of quality:
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New cabinets (not just painted originals)
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Soft-close drawers and doors
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Dovetail joinery on drawers for strength
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Consistent hinges, hardware, and installation
Interior Doors: Hollow or Solid?
Knock on a few doors. Hollow-core doors are light and cheap. Solid-core doors feel substantial and provide better sound insulation.
Windows & Glass Doors: Efficiency Is Everything
Coastal homes especially benefit from modern, impact-rated windows and doors.
Check for:
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Double-pane, energy-efficient glass
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Recent installation stickers or serial numbers
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Smooth-gliding sliding doors
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Storm or impact resistance in hurricane-prone zones
Roofing: More Than Just Shingles
Ask about the age and type of roof. New roofs should comply with current wind codes and be well-installed.
What to ask:
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Is it architectural shingle, metal, or tile?
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Was it replaced within the last 5–10 years?
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Is there a transferable warranty?
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Are there visible signs of sagging or patchwork?
Plumbing Fixtures: Substance Over Shine
Shiny finishes don’t always mean quality plumbing.
Look for:
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Updated shut-off valves
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New traps and piping under sinks
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Quality brand fixtures (Kohler, Moen, Delta)
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No signs of water damage or mold beneath
Flooring & Trim: Craftsmanship Counts
Poor flooring installs can suggest rushed flips.
What to check:
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Flush thresholds between rooms
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Professional trim and baseboard installation
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Consistent material and color
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No hollow sounds or lifting when tapped
Lighting & Electrical Features
Smartly placed lighting and updated outlets are a good sign.
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Recessed LED lights
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Under-cabinet kitchen lighting
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Dimmer switches and modern outlets
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Coordinated fixtures throughout the home
HVAC & Ductwork
Don’t overlook heating and cooling systems.
Check:
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System age (ideally
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Clean, insulated ductwork
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Return vents in multiple rooms
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Smart thermostats or zoned HVAC controls
Trim & Molding Details
Well-done crown molding, baseboards, and window casing elevate a renovation—and show attention to detail.
Closets & Storage
Bonus points for:
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Custom closets or organizers
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Quality drawer pulls and shelving systems
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Attic or garage storage upgrades
Laundry Room Features
Often overlooked, but a sign of functional living:
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Utility sink
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Built-in shelving
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Proper dryer venting
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Waterproof flooring
Garage Condition
Look for:
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Painted drywall
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Epoxy floors
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Updated door mechanisms
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Ceiling-mounted storage or utility systems
Smart Home Features
Tech-savvy homes are both convenient and valuable.
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Smart thermostats (like Nest or Ecobee)
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Wi-Fi-enabled garage openers or locks
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Security systems and video doorbells
Permits and Paperwork
Always ask:
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Were renovations permitted?
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Is documentation available for the work completed?
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Are warranties transferable?
Buying a home is one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make. My goal is to help you not just find a beautiful space—but a smart investment that’s built to last.
– Meredith Amon
Your Local Gulf Coast Real Estate Advisor
#searchthegulf #meredithamon #becausewelivehere
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✅ Buyer’s Checklist: Is It a Quality Update?
Use this checklist to evaluate whether a home has been thoughtfully and thoroughly updated:
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