Buying a home is an exciting milestone — but don’t let excitement overshadow important warning signs. During showings and inspections, what seems like a small issue could actually signal deeper, more expensive problems. Recognizing red flags early can save you time, money, and stress down the line.
Here are several key red flags every buyer should watch for — and the right questions to ask:
1. Discoloration on Walls or Ceilings
Stains, bubbling paint, or discoloration often point to water damage. This could stem from plumbing leaks, roof issues, or poor exterior drainage. Left unchecked, water damage can lead to mold — which can be hazardous to your health and costly to remove.
Ask:
- What caused this discoloration?
- Was it professionally repaired?
- Are there any records of the repair or remediation?
2. Cracks in the Foundation or Walls
While hairline cracks are often normal settling, large cracks or stair-step patterns in brick or drywall can be signs of serious structural issues. These can compromise the integrity of the home and be expensive to fix.
Ask:
- How long have these cracks been here?
- Has a structural engineer ever evaluated them?
- Have there been any foundation repairs or reinforcements?
3. Persistent or Unusual Smells
Strong odors — musty, sewage-like, pet-related, or overly perfumed air — are a red flag. Musty smells may point to mold or mildew. A sewer-like smell could mean a plumbing or septic problem. Overuse of air fresheners may be masking deeper issues.
Ask:
- Is there a history of water leaks or mold in the home?
- Has the home been professionally cleaned or treated recently?
- When were the HVAC and duct systems last inspected or cleaned?
4. Signs of Poor Maintenance
Peeling paint, overgrown landscaping, dirty vents, or broken fixtures may not seem like a big deal — but they can indicate broader neglect. A poorly maintained home may hide bigger problems that haven't been addressed.
Ask:
- When was the last time major systems (roof, HVAC, electrical, etc.) were serviced?
- Are there maintenance records available?
5. Fresh Paint in Isolated Areas
Freshly painted walls or ceilings — especially in spots, not entire rooms — could be an attempt to cover up stains, water damage, or cracks. While not always sinister, it’s worth investigating further.
Ask:
- Why was this area recently painted?
- Can I see photos of what it looked like before?
6. Unpermitted Renovations or Additions
DIY or unpermitted work might look fine on the surface but can lead to legal or safety problems. If rooms were added or walls moved, make sure everything complies with local codes.
Ask:
- Were permits pulled for any recent renovations?
- Can you provide documentation for completed work?
7. Moisture or Mold in the Basement or Attic
These areas are often overlooked but can be hotbeds for moisture issues. Check for damp spots, moldy smells, or signs of condensation.
Ask:
- Has the attic or basement ever had moisture or flooding problems?
- Is there a sump pump or dehumidifier?
8. Neighbourhood Red Flags
Don’t forget to evaluate what’s around the home. Excessive noise, high turnover, poor lighting, or neglected neighbouring properties may affect your long-term enjoyment and resale value.
Ask (yourself and your agent):
- What’s the neighbourhood like during different times of day?
- Are there any upcoming developments or zoning changes?
Bonus Tip: Home Inspection
Even if everything looks great, it is always best practice to hire a certified home inspector. They can uncover hidden or latent defects — from electrical issues behind walls to roof damage that’s not visible from below.
Stay observant, ask questions, and don't ignore your gut. A beautiful kitchen or dreamy backyard isn’t worth the stress of hidden problems. With the right guidance, we can help you navigate red flags and focus on homes that are truly worth your investment.
Next steps:
(1) To learn how to up-size your home, check out my free "Move & Grow Method" guide.
(2): Follow me on my Instagram @trevorthiessen for more tips on real estate, and how we can help.
Post a comment