House Hunting Red Flags

There are several red flags when you’re searching for homes that an unseasoned buyer wouldn’t know to look out for. Don’t be dazzled by a gorgeous outdoor space and finished basement. Be a scrupulous buyer and don’t let these indicators of potentially serious issues fly under the radar.

• Smells – Any strange odors in a home can be indicative of much larger problems. Mildew, mold, pets—these can leave musty odors from damaging the house. Be sure to sniff around closets and basements for any odd smells.
• Recent Renovations – If it’s obvious that renovations have been done recently, ask about them. Were they by a licensed contractor? What was fixed? A fresh coat of paint in a single area could be a quick aesthetic fix to cover up a bigger issue.
• Other Properties on the Market – Are there several homes for sale within a close radius? That could be indicative of a problem in the neighborhood. Do some research on the neighborhood to see what might be the issue.
• Fogged Windows – Moisture trapped between double-paned glass could mean the windows were installed incorrectly.
• Exterior Maintenance – Look at the roof, the gutters, the shrubs, and the lawn for any signs of poor maintenance. If the owners didn’t properly clean gutters or maintain the roof, that could indicate other parts of the home are in disrepair.
• Pests – This one is a no-brainer, but keep an eye out for any bugs.
• Exposed Wiring – A dangerous, and obvious, problem to look out for.
• Closed Rooms – If for any reason, you’re not allowed to enter a part of the property, that’s a glaring red flag. There’s not excuse (including privacy) to block off any part of a home that’s for sale to buyers.