Red Flags To Avoid

When you're out shopping for a home it's easy to focus on things like floor plan, bedroom size, color palettes, backyards, location. After all, these are potentially the things you want to see in a home.

However, it's also important to look a little below the surface. Whether you are just viewing the home for the first time or at a home inspection, watch out for the real estate red flags.

DRY ROT / TERMITE DAMAGE

While almost every home will have it, there is a process and sometimes a large fee associated with it, and with real estate transactions, it's always good to know if a potential cost may come up in the transaction. Termites and dry rot like to settle in the eves and/or rooflines of the home.

You can usually spot damage by simply walking around the property. Inconsistencies in paint and warping are clear indicators. Most importantly, whether it's written in your purchase agreement or not, always get a termite inspection. They are sometimes free and knowing is better than guessing.

WATER STAINS

These are fairly common as well. Why? Because over the life span of a home, it will tend to have a leak here and there. So you will likely see stains from old leaks where the wood was just not replaced.

Usually, the homeowner you are purchasing the home from will cover any past leaks in the transfer disclosure statement and will even have documentation on work that was done. If the water stain looks recent or is slightly damp, that is showing signs of an active leak. Further investigation is a must!

PATCHING

If you look at the walls and/or ceilings when you walk through the home, sometimes you can notice a random patch spot. This is clear evidence that the wall had to be opened up to get access or deal with a problem.

If there is nothing from the seller on the transfer disclosure statement, be sure to have your agent get more information from the seller if possible. If the patch/repair was done before the current owners bought it, they may not have any information on it.

ROOF WEAR

Most homes in our area are made of either tile or composition. The good news with tile is it's a longer-lasting roof. While tile roofs have a longer lifespan, typically 50 years, they can be harder to notice if they are wearing.

With composition roofs, you can usually see curling or sliding pieces that will indicate either a new layer is needed. As with any red flags, it is a MUST to hire a professional to diagnose any issues.

CRACKING

Have you ever heard the term "settling"? It is a common term used to describe the process of a home or building easing into the ground below. Indications of this are slight slopes in flooring or stress cracks in the walls.

A little settling is normal for a home but if these indications look severe then it is possible that there could be issues with the foundation of the home. Severe drywall cracking is the most common red flag when the foundation is in question. Another item to look for is if the door is misaligned with the door frame.

WHAT ELSE?

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