If you’re in the market to buy a house, it helps to be diligent and thorough to close on a good deal. Even if you were impressed by the initial looks of the house, there might be red flags that suggest problems lurking behind the facade. Here’s how to spot some of these red flags.

How to Know Which Houses to Avoid

1. Foundation or Structural Failures

Foundation and structural issues are expensive to fix, adding on to the cost of the house. Pay attention to the yard grading. If it slopes towards the house, water can end up in the basement or down the foundation walls, causing them to weaken over time. Look out for bulges and cracks on the walls and door frames as signs of a compromised foundation.

2. Electrical Troubles

When you want to buy a house, first look at its electrical system. Check the outlets and switches to see if they’re working. Note any flickering lights and burning smells. Also, locate and inspect the circuit breaker to assess its condition. Overhauling an outdated wiring system can set you back a fair amount.

3. Infestations & Mold

Some homes may have fallen prey to pest infestations or mold growth at one point; ask if there have been previous incidents before you buy a house. Spot telltale signs like rotted wood, hollow-sounding areas, foul odors, and unsightly stains. Remediation is another expense you’ll have to take on should you proceed with the purchase.

4. Lack of Maintenance

During your search, be wary of amateur repairs done on the house. Hack jobs like uneven coats of paint, flimsy repairs, and missing parts point to a previous homeowner that enjoys DIY and may not have maintained the home properly.

When planning to buy a house, be on the lookout for the red flags above and trust the real estate team at Open Real Estate. Headquartered in Lakewood, CO, they’ve helped countless residents sell a house and buy property throughout the metro Denver area. Call (303) 232-1111 to schedule a consultation. Also check out their available real estate listings online.