While checking out a home at an open house, it helps to have an air of suspicion – dare I say, a bit of private eye, when it comes to homebuying.Don’t feel guilty about sleuthing around for these potential issues, per Cathie Ericson via realtor.com, of tell-tale signs of maybe-bigger issues.
Smelly house - Not bad smelly, necessarily, but lots of smells. Potpourri, fresh baked cookies, air fresheners – a lot going on. This could be to detract from another, greater issue.
Bad tiling – Gaps in tiles could be indicative of, not just sloppy cosmetics, but of other poor repair jobs.
Foundation problems – Cracks in the foundation, around windows or doors, could point to mere settling of a home, but might also mean larger issues.
Water source – A creek or river may be beautiful to look at, but could pose a flood risk to the property.
Mold – While mold isn’t always detectable by the eye, looking under sinks and anywhere dampness tends to lurks is a good way to spot it – black or gray spots near tubs and faucets could mean serious, moldy issues.
For more on this blog and things to be mindful of during open houses and homebuying, check out this blog.
Source: http://www.realtor.com/advice/buy/things-to-look-for-when-buying-a-home/