5 Red Flags to Look for During a Home Walkthrough

Buying a home is an exciting process, but it can also be overwhelming. Before you fall in love with the aesthetics of a property, it's crucial to look past the fresh paint and staging.

1. Foundation Cracks and Structural Issues

While hairline cracks in concrete are common and often harmless, large, jagged, or horizontal cracks in the foundation are major red flags. Uneven floors, doors that won't close properly, and windows that stick can all point to structural settling that might cost tens of thousands to repair.

2. Signs of Water Damage

Water is a home's worst enemy. Look up at the ceilings for brown water stains, check under all sinks, and smell for musty odors in the basement or crawlspace. Fresh paint on a single patch of ceiling could be an attempt to hide an active roof leak.

3. Outdated or Unsafe Electrical Systems

In older homes, look for two-prong outlets, which indicate an ungrounded system. Flickering lights, warm switch plates, or a disorganized electrical panel are signs that you need a professional to evaluate the system before closing.

4. Roof Wear and Tear

Replacing a roof is one of the most expensive home repairs. From the ground, look for missing, curling, or cracked shingles. Also, note if the roof looks wavy or sagging, which indicates structural issues underneath the shingles.

5. DIY Renovations Gone Wrong

Flipped homes or ambitious DIY projects often hide shoddy workmanship. Look closely at the tile work in bathrooms, the trim around doors, and the plumbing under the sink. If the visible work is sloppy, the hidden work (like electrical and plumbing behind the walls) is likely worse.

Key Takeaways

• Look past cosmetic updates to evaluate the bones of the house.
• Water damage and structural issues are the most expensive to fix.
• Never waive your right to a professional home inspection.