Buyers, it’s important to do your due diligence when purchasing a house. Red flags indicate problems, warnings, or issues ahead. Because homes don’t come with bright red flags to mark any issues or defaults, let’s discuss how to spot any potential problems. When you know how to spot the red flags, you’re prepared to sidestep any home defects and steer towards only homes which bring the most value and features for the asking price.

Give it the Sniff Test

Once you cross over the threshold of the home, give it the sniff test. Close your eyes and sniff. Any smell of stale cigarettes? Pet odors? Hints of mildew or mold? Unpleasant odors can linger and become masked when homeowners become immune to the scents. These same smells will smack a visitor in the face. If every room smells of air freshener or a burning candle, investigate more to learn if these artificial scents are attempts to mask unpleasant odors.

DIY Amateur Repairs

When it comes to amateur repairs some are done well, while others should have been left to the professionals. The popularity of DIY television shows and YouTube videos leads homeowners to attempt tackling some repairs on their own that may not follow current building safety codes. This is often done due to the lack of understanding for everyone’s safety. As you’re walking through the home, pay attention to repairs.  

Older HVAC System

Older HVAC systems won’t operate at peak efficiency levels. In general, the peak age for a system is around 10 years. An aging heating system is susceptible to failure, repairs, carbon monoxide leaks, and higher energy costs. A poorly ventilated home will hold moisture which leads to a breeding ground for moisture spurring mold growth and poor air quality.

Plumbing & Water Concerns

As you check out the kitchen and bathroom, do these things:

• Look for dripping faucets, leaking fixtures, or any blocked drains.
• Flush the toilet and observe if it drains properly.
• Notice any water stains.
• Fill the sink and then watch how smoothly and quickly the water drains.
• How’s the water pressure? If family members were doing the dishes, someone flushed the toilet, and another person was taking a shower could the water pressure handle everything?

Be sure to walk around the outside and look for any drainage issues or poor sloping areas in the landscape. Water drainage should be away from the foundation.

Don’t Hesitate: Say Yes to a Home Inspection

Numerous lenders recognize the importance of having a home inspection and require an inspection as part of their lending process. Even if your lender doesn’t require an inspection, it’s a good idea to have one done. Here’s why: the home inspector will point out details and any potential problems you may not have noticed. The inspector understands what lies beyond the surface. The inspector’s job is to help homebuyers have the necessary information about the home being considered so the buyer can make an informed decision. The home inspector will remain neutral about the property—analyzing the home’s strengths and weaknesses in their inspection report.

Common things a home inspector will review include:

• foundation
• basement and attic space
• roofing
• insulation
• walls, ceilings, and flooring
• heating and cooling system
• plumbing system
• electrical system
• Radon detection equipment, if applicable

Don’t shy away from a home with a few red flags or if an issue is uncovered during the home inspection. Discuss any findings with your real estate agent. Your agent can help you determine if the findings are an issue or something which can be negotiated.

I’m here to assist you and answer your questions through every step of the transaction. Let me know how I can best serve you.

Since 2004 Sara Lyn Nguyen continues to bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise about buying and selling real estate around the Houston area to those she serves. Sara is a multi-year award winning REALTOR® and relocation specialist where her clients trust her to have up-to-date information on the real estate market. She has been one of Gary Greene’s Multi-Million Dollar Top Producers and was the #2 Top Producing agent in 2020 citywide. When it’s time to buy, sell, invest, or relocate speak with a trusted professional knowledgeable in the homes and neighborhoods of Fort Bend/Sugar Land and the surrounding region.