Red Flags Home Buyers Should Watch Out For

When Alexandria South new home buyers begin their home search with a real estate agent, they often have a list of criteria for their new house. They usually know how many bedrooms they want, and what architectural style they prefer. However, many buyers are not aware of the things they do not want in a new home. Home buyers should work closely with their professional real estate agent as they browse available home listings. These are the red flags that home buyers should watch out for:

For informational purposes only. Always consult with a licensed real estate professional before proceeding with any real estate transaction.

Signs of Water Damage

In a perfect world, home sellers would always disclose any water damage that has occurred during their time living at the property. However, many homeowners go to great lengths to conceal water damage, because they know it can impact the sale of their home. During a showing, buyers should watch out for signs of possible water damage. This may include, but is not limited to, stains on the ceiling, damage to the flooring or standing water near the foundation of the property.

Foul Odors

A home showing is a sensory experience, and one of the first things that many home buyers notice is the smell of a home. A home that is filled with bad smells, either from cooking, smoking or pets, is likely going to spend more time on the market than its more fragrant counterparts. To combat this, home sellers sometimes burn scented candles, spray odor-removing products or use perform to mask these odors. Buyers who notice this will want to tread carefully, as the home seller may be trying to hide something that will be difficult to address after the home purchase.

DIY Repairs

Not everyone is a DIY expert, which means that a home that is filled with DIY repairs could be a home that requires a lot of work on the part of the new buyer. In some cases, home sellers make a last ditch effort to improve their property before listing it. These repairs are often done as quickly and cheaply as possible, and may not last long.

Foundation Issues

For most home buyers, foundation issues are a deal breaker. Buyers should work closely with their real estate agent during the showing to evaluate the exterior perimeter of the home as well as the interior foundation. In addition, be sure that any home inspection examines the foundation and structure of the home. Large cracks in the basement flooring or in the crawl space can be a sign of major foundation issues. Most foundation issues are costly to address, some home sellers try to avoid them when possible.

Signs of Mold

Not only is mold an issue for the structure of a home, but it also can be a health hazard for its occupants. Home buyers should actively check for mold during a showing appointment. While walking through the home with their real estate agent, buyers should look in all cabinets near sinks and around the tubs and toilets in the bathrooms. In addition, the attic and basement should be checked for mold.

First-time home buyers and experienced home buyers both require the expertise of a real estate agent as they navigate through their local real estate market. A professional real estate agent can help point out potential issues within a home, and can make recommendations to assist in the negotiation process. To begin seeing available homes in the area, contact a qualified local real estate agent today.

For informational purposes only. Always consult with a licensed real estate professional before proceeding with any real estate transaction.