10 Red Flags To Look For When Buying a Home
So you’re out looking at houses. It’s overwhelming. It’s fun. It’s tiring. It’s emotional. But when you’re out looking, are you looking for things that you should be looking for? Or are you caught up in the moment? It’s fine to be caught up in the emotions when you’re out house searching. But look for these 10 things, too. Keep in mind if you do see these things, there’s no reason to panic, it’s just things you need to be asking about when you have your home inspection.
Insects or Pests - Do you see ant or mouse or rat traps? Evidence of termites (i.e. piles of sawdust around areas made of wood?)
Fresh Paint - I’m not talking about an entire painted room. I’m talking about fresh patches of paint on ceilings or walls, like maybe water damage that’s been covered up, but not necessarily repaired. Along that line is also water stained walls or ceilings. Sometimes these are problems where the source of the problem has been fixed, just not the cosmetics. Make sure your inspector checks it out.
Foundation or Structural Issues - Does the basement smell wet or moldy? Is there evidence of water? Is there a humidifier running in the basement?
Odors? - And on that note, what about other odors? Not only wet or moldy/mildew smells, but what about other strange odors? Pet odors? Smoke? If there are a bunch of candles burning, or plug in air fresheners in every room, take note.
Neighborhood Surroundings - Look at the neighbors’ homes. Are the lawns mowed? Is there debris in the yards? Are the homes maintained? These items have an effect on a home’s value.
Exterior Grading and Landscaping - Are the gutters clean? Is there standing water? These problems lead to problems inside the home many times. Is the property graded away from the home? Note these items.
Plumbing - Run the water in the home. Flush the toilet. Can you get hot water from the tap? How’s the water pressure in the shower? Poor water pressure is a drag, and a sign of potentially bigger issues.
Electrical - Are there GFCI outlets in the kitchens, baths, and near water sources? Outside? In the garage? These are all safety issues. If it’s an older home, are the outlets two or three prong?
More on Landscaping - Take a look at the trees outside. Are there dead trees? Ones that may be infected with insects or disease? Treatment for things like emerald ash borer can be expensive. Removing dead trees from a property can be expensive.
Mold - Always look for mold. Basements, attics, if you have access, and even in the bathroom.
