Buying a home is a significant investment, so it’s important to know what to look for during a home tour. Some issues are easily fixable, but others may cause more serious problems over time. As you’re looking for the right home, there are some red flags to be aware of.
One of the most critical aspects of any home is its foundation. “The main thing is going to be the foundation,” says Redfin Agent David Palmer. “I’m looking for horizontal foundation cracks [in the basement] first. If I see those, it’s an immediate stop—you’re going to need at least a foundation expert to take a look at that.”
On the other hand, vertical cracks aren’t necessarily as concerning. However, if the cracks are large enough to fit a coin or similar-sized object, then make note of it. Palmer continues, “I’m not as worried unless it’s large enough that I could stick a coin into it. Then you really need to get a foundation expert out there as well.”
Foundation repairs can be extremely expensive, so identifying issues early can save you from unexpected costs in the future. If you’re concerned about any foundation issues, ask your real estate agent for their opinion or schedule a foundation inspection.
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Water stains on ceilings, walls, or floors can be a sign of leaks or poor drainage. Untreated water damage can lead to additional problems such as sagging ceilings or mold. Mold, especially in basements or bathrooms, is another indicator of moisture issues that could lead to long-term structural damage and health concerns.
Always check for musty odors or visible mold spots, as they can signal a costly repair in the future. Easy places to check include the bathroom, like in the shower or sink.
3. Signs of rodent infestation
Pests — including rodents— are another important red flag when buying a house. You’ll want to inspect the crawl space for any signs of a rodent infestation. “Walking around the perimeter, I am going to be looking at the vents into the crawl space and checking for any holes chewed into it,” Palmer notes.
Small holes in the crawl space may indicate a current or past rodent problem. “A mouse only needs a hole about the size of a dime, and now you have a rodent problem,” he warns. It’s imperative that you address these issues before purchasing a home. Fixing a rodent problem now can prevent bigger infestations down the road.
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An outdated electrical panel or exposed wiring can be a serious fire hazard. If the home still has knob-and-tube or aluminum wiring, upgrading the system can be expensive. Make sure the electrical panel meets modern safety standards, and check for flickering lights, frequently tripped breakers, or exposed wires.
5. Roof condition
A home’s roof is essential for protecting against the elements, so it’s vital you know the roof’s condition, age, and materials. “When I’m approaching the house, I’m looking at the roofline to see if I’m seeing waves,” Palmer says. “Am I seeing a wave in the roofline? Is there discoloration to give me an idea of how old the roof may be?”
These signs can give you an indication of the roof’s condition, potential damage, and whether it was recently replaced. If you have questions, be sure to ask the listing agent.
Additionally, chimneys should also be checked for signs of deterioration. “How is it? Is it deteriorated? Is it falling apart,” shares Palmer. A damaged roof or chimney can be expensive to repair, so it’s important to catch these signs early.
6. Sloping floors and sagging ceilings
Two major signs that lead to expensive repairs include sloping floors and sagging ceilings. Sloping floors can indicate foundational issues, rotted flooring, or collapsed beams. Sagging ceilings also indicate issues such as foundational problems or leaks. Both of these problems can be costly to repair in the future, so it’s important to understand what’s causing these issues.
7. Poor drainage and grading
Like the home’s interior, you should also check for signs of sloping outside. If the yard slopes toward the house rather than away from it, water may pool near the foundation. This can lead to leaks or flooding in the basement, which can be costly to fix. You should also check for standing water near the home, if possible, as well as signs of erosion or water damage on the exterior walls.
8. Fog or condensation in windows
If you see condensation in the windows, it may be due to poor sealing. This means the windows were not sealed properly and are now letting in air from the outside. Poor sealing can lead to increased utility costs as the windows are letting in hot or cold air. While not a deal breaker, it may mean you’ll need to have the windows replaced.
9. Unpleasant or odd odors
When house hunting, it’s important to pay close attention to the details. If you pick up on a funky smell, it may indicate mold, a plumbing issue, water damage, HVAC issues, or something else. And if there’s an overly scented hallway or bedroom, such as too much air freshener, that could signal there’s an odor the seller is trying to mask.
10. The price seems too good to be true
Home prices can be a deal-breaker when you’re house hunting. If it’s out of your price range, it’s usually out of the question. However, if you see a home priced below market value, this could mean there’s an issue with the house or location. So, before getting too excited about a lower mortgage payment, be sure to ask your real estate agent for more information about the home’s pricing and their insights. You may uncover hidden problems like the home needs a new roof or HVAC system.
Bottom line: Don’t skip over minor issues
Sometimes a minor issue can reveal more significant problems. “Those could wind up like a string on a sweater—you start going down that rabbit hole, and things start to get more and more expensive,” Palmer advises. If you see any red flags when buying a house, make sure you address these issues before they become a costly problem.
If you are represented by an agent, this is not a solicitation of your business. This article is for informational purposes only, and is not a substitute for professional advice from a medical provider, licensed attorney, financial advisor, or tax professional. Consumers should independently verify any agency or service mentioned will meet their needs. Learn more about our
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Alison is part of the Content Marketing team as a Content Marketing Manager. In her 5 years at Redfin, Alison has written a variety of articles ranging from home design tips to housing affordability. A California-native, Alison currently resides in Seattle where you can find her catching a concert or exploring farmers’ markets. Her dream home is a cottage-style house with a chef’s kitchen and a cozy room to store and play vinyl records.
