RECOGNIZING RED FLAGS WHEN LOOKING FOR A HOME TO BUY.

It’s easy to get caught up in the fun of house hunting, but you also need to keep your eyes open for warning signs that the home you’re considering might not be a safe, sound, dependable dwelling.?

Thankfully, you can easily spot major red flags. You just have to know what to look for, have the right people on your side and go into your purchase with your eyes wide open.

So let’s peel back the curtain—and possibly some paint to see what’s behind it—and start identifying the biggest homebuyer red flags.

Foundation Cracks

All poured concrete foundations will crack at one time or another, but hairline cracks are not an indication of a problem. If a crack is wider than 1/2 inch, however, it’s a good idea to have a foundation contractor examine the area. This also holds true for cracks that appear to have been recently patched. Large cracks can indicate an unstable foundation.Foundation Cracks

Moldy Smell

Most mold isn’t of the scary toxic variety like, for instance, Stachybotrys, but inhaling any type of mold spores can contribute to respiratory symptoms, headaches, and other illnesses, and the presence of mold may indicate a problem with the house. If you smell mold, check beneath sinks, around windows, and in basements and crawl spaces for leaks. If a leak has been going on for a long time, construction materials, including wood members, drywall, and carpets may need to be replaced.

A Roof in Poor Condition

A bad or damaged roof can be a major red flag, for a compromised roof can cause a plethora of problems. A roof in poor condition could also indicate deferred maintenance, which may extend to other parts of the house.

Outdated Plumbing

Outdated plumbing also sends up a red flag for those looking to buy a home. An out-of-date plumbing system is more prone to leaks, blockages, and other issues and can result in costly repairs and inconvenience for homeowners.

Faulty Wiring

Faulty wiring may cause persistent electrical issues like circuit breakers frequently tripping, flickering lights, or outlets that don't function properly. The cost of rewiring a house can also be substantial, depending on the property’s size and the complexity of the work. Conduct a thorough electrical inspection before purchasing a home to avoid these potential problems.

Recognizing these red flags can save hopeful homeowners time, money, and undue stress. Always inspect a house thoroughly, considering aspects like the roof's condition, the home’s foundation, and electrical system.

Your dream home should not just appeal aesthetically – you also want it to be structurally sound, safe, and reasonably priced. Hiring a professional home inspector is always advisable to avoid hidden problems.

Choose Abulesowo Realtors Today!!