Each month, FrontDoor.com lists the top 10 things homebuyers and sellers need to know about a different topic. So stay tuned for tips on everything from foreclosures to taxes.
FrontDoor.com's Top 10 Red Flags for Homebuyers
Sellers don't always tell the whole truth to potential homebuyers, especially if they're eager to sell (or "motivated" in real estate lingo). But you can't afford to get a professional inspection of every house you tour. So before you spring for the pro, narrow down your choices by doing your own pre-inspection to spot potential problems.
- Mass Exodus from the NeighborhoodDon't let a home's curb appeal keep you from glancing down the street. Are there several other homes for sale? Are nearby businesses boarded up or vandalized? Get the scoop from the neighbors. If everyone else wants to leave the street, maybe you should, too -- before you're stuck with a bad investment. Read More >>
- Mediocre MaintenanceThree layers of roofing and gutters with plants growing in them are signs the owners aren't big on maintaining their home. What else did they neglect? Read More >>
- Foundation FailuresCheck out the yard grading. If the yard slopes towards the house, it could cause water to run down the foundation walls or into the basement, which will be costly to repair. Scour the foundation for damage. Bulges or cracks bigger than 1/3 inch can mean the house has serious structural issues.
Read More >> - Bad Smells (inside or outside)Take a big whiff of the air inside and outside the house. Do you smell anything funky? If you can't smell anything but the huge baskets of potpourri all over the house, this could be a red flag. Read More >>
- Faulty or Old WiringWhile you're probably not an electrician, make sure all the switches and outlets in the house function properly. Flickering lights, circuits that don't work and warm or hot outlets or faceplates are all symptoms of wiring problems. Read More >>
- Fresh Paint... on One WallNew paint can really spruce up drab walls, but it can also hide bigger problems, like water damage, mildew or mold. If the room smells strange or if you see stains or saggy walls or ceilings, have an inspector look for mold and leaks. Read More >>
- Locked Doors and BlockadesAsk about any rooms that are "off limits" during your home tour, and arrange to see them later if you're interested in the house. Read More >>
- Foggy or Non-Functioning WindowsCheck for water in between double-paned windows and make sure all the windows are functional. Read More >>
- Structural Walls or Floors Have Been RemovedSure you love the open floor plan, but was the house always open or did the homeowners renovate? If they removed a load-bearing wall without adjusting the framing, it can shift weight to other parts of the house. Hire a structural engineer if you think any renovations are questionable. Read More >>
- Bugs!No one wants a house with a pest problem -- be it roaches, mice or worst of all, termites. Be on the lookout for unwelcome creatures as you tour the house. Even if no foes pop out while you're there, consider a separate termite inspection if you're thinking of purchasing the property. Read More >>
- BOTTOM LINE: Always get a professional inspectionYeah, it's a little expensive, but it's worth every penny. Don't kid yourself: skipping a home inspection is not a good way to cut homebuying costs. You'll end up paying more in the long run when problems inevitably arise. Read More >>
Archive
You can never get enough Top 10 tips. Check out our past lists for more great advice.
- 10 Ways to Beat the Sluggish Housing Market - Don't let the slow market get you down. Whether you're a home seller looking for offers, or a homebuyer facing stricter loan requirements, rev up your real estate potential with these helpful pointers.
- 10 Things to Know About Foreclosure - "Foreclosure" is the big buzz word into today's market. What exactly is foreclosure and how does it affect you? FrontDoor breaks down what you need to know, whether you're a homeowner in mortgage default or a buyer looking for a bargain.
- 10 Tax Tips for Homeowners - Some of the best perks of owning a home are the tax breaks. Know what expenses you can deduct and how new laws affect you. If you're currently renting, consider the tax advantages of homeownership.
- 10 Red Flags for Homebuyers - Sellers don't always tell the whole truth to potential homebuyers, especially if they're eager to sell (or "motivated" in real estate lingo). But you can't afford to get a professional inspection of every house you tour. So before you spring for the pro, narrow down your choices by doing your own pre-inspection to spot potential problems.