It’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of finding an affordable property and securing it quickly before anyone else jumps in. However, when buying a home, you will often only see the good points on the first visit. In other words, you’ll miss the warning signs that the house isn’t as good as you think it is especially with flood check scams.
Fortunately, you can educate yourself before you start looking and you’ll be able to spot the warning signs. At the very least these will remind you of the importance of having a home inspection.
The Price Is Low
The first warning sign is when the price is lower than expected or than you feel it should be. This suggests that the owner is in a rush to get rid of the property and you have to ask why. While there are genuine reasons for lower prices attracting faster sales, it is also possible that the price reflects an issue with the property.
Proceed with caution.
Doors & Windows
Flipping, the art of buying a house and redecorating it to sell for a profit is becoming increasingly popular. If you’re looking at a flipped house then it doesn’t automatically follow that it’s a poor investment. But, it could be.
If the main motivation is price then the glossy finish may look great but not last for long. One of the best ways to assess the quality of care given to a house is to look at the doors and windows. If they have been replaced with high-quality doors and windows, such as these Parkwood doors, then you’re onto a good thing.
If, however, they appear to be cheaper replacements you’ll need to be aware that this theme could carry through the house. It may look great but how much work will you need to do to keep it that way?
Excess Of Properties For Sale
It is always worth looking around the neighbourhood. If you see lots of houses are for sale then you need to be asking either what is wrong with the neighbourhood or what development is likely to arrive in the area in the near future.
The greater the number of properties for sale in one area the less attractive your purchase should seem.
Stains & Odours
One thing to be particularly careful of when viewing a house, even one that you intend to decorate, is whether there are any odours or water stains. These indicate there is a moisture issue. It could be leaking pipes, broken toilets, or rising damp. But, water can damage the structural wood, weakening the property. Make sure you get it checked before you commit to buying.
Cracks
Older houses tend to have settled and there may be small cracks in the wall coverings that reflect this. But, if you notice any larger cracks you’ll need to ask whether the house is structurally sound. When you have suspicions it is best to get them checked before you go any further.
In many cases, the best indication that you shouldn’t be buying a particular house is when you simply feel it in your gut. Don’t ignore this feeling.
