House hunting can be an exciting process, but potential buyers need to protect their interests as they decide on their future homes. While a property may look promising, several serious issues could be hidden just below the surface. If buyers aren’t made aware of these problems, it can create the need for costly repairs down the road. As you begin the search for your future home, be sure to schedule an inspection and check for the following issues before you make a final decision with your real estate agent.

A Guide to Home Issues for Potential Buyers

1. Foundation Damage

A property’s foundation is the structural backbone of the home. If it becomes cracked or begins to erode, the property will no longer sit safely on a solid base. Sinking or shifting can damage framing, cause walls to bow, create uneven flooring, and potentially lead to a full collapse.

During an inspection, have professionals look for signs of cracking around the exterior and in the basement or crawlspace. They can let you know if existing damage is reasonable to repair or if the most responsible financial decision would be to move on to another property.

2. Dated Roofing

While it can be easy to forget about the state of the roof, this part of the property protects the interior and residents from the elements and helps maintain the home’s climate. Dated or damaged roofing will begin to crumble, lose shingles, and create patches on the surface that can lead to interior water damage. If the underlying support begins to weaken, it can cause the roof to collapse when it encounters harsh wind or heavy snow and ice.

The average roof lasts for 15 years. A home inspector can uncover existing problems and recommend necessary upgrades—such as new shingles or insulating attic decking—to improve it. You can leverage anticipated costs when negotiating with the seller to cover the expenses of repairing or replacing the roof.

3. Flood Zone

If the home looks perfect and the inspection comes back clean, potential buyers need to examine the area the property is in. A common mistake is failing to check if the property is in a flood zone. Heavy rains can cause significant damage to your property, and grade erosion related to consistent high water could lead to a landslide.

Home insurance providers may offer inflated premiums if you’re in a flood zone, and property value is sure to diminish. If you’re willing to take a risk, leverage flood zone proximity during negotiations and look at flooding history in the area to weigh the risks of buying against the benefits of the property.

The best way to handle home hunting is by working with a real estate agent. Ryan Hutchinson Coldwell Banker Gundaker serves buyers and sellers throughout the Lake St. Louis, MO, area. Ryan has a deep understanding of the local market, including family homes and land for sale. She’ll work with you from the beginning of the house-hunting phase to closing to ensure that your home-buying or selling goals are met. Explore available properties on her website and call (314) 566-6903 today to schedule a consultation.