We should always be on the look out for red flags – in life, at work, out and about, in relationships, but also when viewing a home to purchase!
There’s some obvious ones, and some not so obvious ones. But a red flag is a red flag for a reason, and you should always listen to your gut and ask questions when touring a home. After all, buying a home is one of the biggest decisions and purchases you’ll ever make…
Here are 10 red flags to watch out for when viewing a home…
1. Too much air freshener/candles, all the windows open, or dehumidifiers everywhere
If they’re trying to hide an unpleasant smell, the above are signs of what could be a big problem! From sewer problems, to cigarette smoke, and even animal urine. Trust us, this is not a red flag you want to overlook. If the windows are all open, this could also suggest AC or heat issues.
2. Always check the garage and/or basement
If pets are kept in garages, there can often be animal-related smells – might not seem like a huge issue, but these smells can be difficult to get rid of, and may even leave your own pets unsettled. Basements can also come with unusual smells – also look for water damage in both!
3. Old or damaged windows (and doors)
These can become veryyy expensive to replace – examine everything thoroughly!
4. A lot of furniture and clutter
Home stagers can sometimes be asked to fill a home and create distractions. be a sign that they’re distracting you from a bigger problem. Try to drown out the noise and hone in on what that could be.
5. The plumbing
Check faucets, showers, and toilets. Another expensive one to fix later – check the plumbing as much as you can to ensure there are no issues, or leaks.
Also look on ceilings for water damage and marks.
6. Signs of mold
Basements, bathrooms, and even the backs of closets can be damp spaces and ideal homes for mold.
7. Check under the rugs
Might seem silly – but can be an easy way to hide termite damage or other issues!
8. Drive by at nighttime
To see if it’s loud, or there’s anything that might make you feel unsettled or unsafe.
9. Bug repellents and/or mouse traps
Easy signs of some unwanted guests – check in basements, garages, kitchen cabinets, under stairs.
10. Check the date on the water heater
Another expensive one to replace – water heaters only last between six to ten years, you don’t want to be forking out for that!
Last but not least….
Body shaped mounds of soil in the backyard.
Joking – kind of. But nobody wants bodies in their yard!
