When looking for a new house, it’s easy to get swept up in the charming aspects of the property, such as the backyard deck or the kitchen bay window. However, there are some aspects of a home that aren’t immediately apparent that could cause issues down the line. If you’re hoping to root out the red flags during your real estate search, use the following guide. 

3 Red Flags to Watch Out for When Searching for a Home

1. Hard-to-Access Areas

Once you’ve toured the main rooms of the house, ask the seller if you can see the attic and basement, as the condition of these rooms could significantly affect the value of the home. Keep an eye out for roof leaks in the attic, such as light streaming in from small openings, moist insulation, or a musty odor. 

Scan the basement for pests like ants and rodents. It’s also important to look for water damage, as flooding, sagging gutters, or landscape grading issues could have allowed moisture to permeate the foundation. 

2. Strange Odors

If you notice any foul odors outside, there could be a sewage leak. Ask the owner if the property has a septic system and when the last pumping was performed. Whether a tree root penetrated the main sewer line or the septic system has overflowed, your nose will help you root out serious and expensive flaws. If you can bring the issue to the seller’s attention, you might be able to subtract the cost of the septic pumping or sewage repair from the home’s price.

3. Exterior Cracks

While you’re outdoors, look for cracks in the siding or foundation, as well as any damage to the roof or gutter system. These could be the result of an unsteady or cracked foundation, which caused the rest of the home to shift. This serious structural damage could also have caused sloping or uneven floors inside the home, and will be expensive to fix.

If you’re shopping for real estate in the Coon Rapids, MN, market, reach out to EXIT Realty Nexus. This real estate company is committed to helping buyers make smart decisions about their investments. Whether you’re looking for a one-bedroom apartment or a family home, you can count on their brokers to lead you to the property that meets your needs. To learn more about their available homes, visit the website. Call (763) 548-1400 to make an appointment with an agent.