As you tour through properties during your home search, it’s easy to get caught up in the staging and first impression that a home gives you. While feeling that connection with a home is important, you should also look for subtle signs of damage that could be cause for concern. These issues may be the deciding factor about whether you want to buy a home or not.

Subtle Home Search Red Flags to Look For

1. Uneven Floors

Uneven floors are a common sign of foundation damage. If the floor is tilted enough that it’s noticeable upon entering a room, this means the property could have some severe and dangerous structural damage. It may also be subtle enough that you don’t notice it when you enter the room; you can place a ball on the floor to see if it rolls on its own.

2. Damaged Paint

Water damage in the walls will affect paint by staining it and wallpaper by peeling it. Look for discolored patches on the walls or bubbling paint. When you place your hand against the wall, it may be soft to the touch. Water damage can cause a host of problems, from rotting wood to foundation issues. 

3. Musty Odor

When a home has mold growth, it will release a strong musty odor. If you smell that when you walk inside, the fungus may be growing behind walls or beneath the floors. This type of growth is an indicator of trapped moisture, so there may be cracks or leaks around the smell. 

4. Cracks

Cracks are another common sign of foundation problems. If the home has bricks with mortar between it, you may see cracks in the mortar. Keep in mind that vertical cracks are common and not necessarily a cause for concern; this is a usual side effect of a house settling. Stair-step or horizontal cracks, however, could be indicative of structural problems.

A realtor can guide you through your home search, as they are familiar with what to look for in a house. The team at Herron Realty are the local experts on the real estate market in Hamilton, Northern Oneida, and Herkimer counties in New York. When you buy a home with them, you can trust them to make the process as rewarding and stress-free as possible. Visit them online to browse their listed properties or at (315) 369-6910 to schedule a consultation.