10 Essential Red Flags to Watch For During Your Home Tour (And How to Spot Them)

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When you’re touring potential homes, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement. You start imagining your future life there, which is completely normal. You start picturing where you’ll put your couch, the color you’ll paint the walls, and how you’ll set up the backyard for those summer cookouts.

But let’s be honest—it can also feel pretty overwhelming. There’s so much to consider, and it’s easy to miss important details.

That’s why having a list of things to focus on can be super helpful, making sure you make good decisions and don’t overlook anything critical. Remember, no home is perfect, and each of the conditions below should always be taken in context.

Maybe you’re looking for a fixer-upper, the price is just too good to pass up, or you’re highly motivated to make it work—whatever the case, this list is simply here to help you feel more comfortable that you aren’t making a decision based only on emotion and that you have your eyes open to the home’s true condition. Before you start mentally moving in, take a moment to switch gears and put on your detective hat. No one wants to find out that their dream home is hiding a bunch of costly surprises.

To help you avoid that, here are some key red flags to keep an eye out for during a home tour. Remember, every home will have some quirks, and not all issues are deal-breakers. But having this checklist will ensure you make a well-informed decision and don’t get swept away by emotions alone.

1. Pet Damage: Some homeowners have pets, and while we all love our furry friends, they can sometimes cause damage to a home. Pet stains, scratches, and lingering smells can be tell-tale signs. If you’re looking for a home without too many repair costs, these issues could lead to unexpected expenses. However, if you’re willing to put in some effort to clean up or replace materials, pet damage might not be a major concern. Be on the lookout for signs like pet stains on carpets, scratches on floors or doors, and any lingering odors. Pet damage can be more than just cosmetic—it can lead to deeper issues, like smells that are tough to get rid of or chewed areas that need repair.
2. Signs of Water Damage: Water stains on walls, ceilings, or floors are a major red flag. They could mean there’s been a leak, which might lead to mold or even structural problems. Pay close attention to areas around windows, the basement, and under sinks—these are hot spots for hidden water issues.
3. Cracks in the Foundation or Walls: Not every crack is a deal-breaker, but large or horizontal cracks can indicate bigger structural concerns. Hairline cracks are often normal due to settling, but significant cracks should be examined by a professional to assess the seriousness. If you see anything that makes you uneasy, it’s best to bring it up or get a professional to check it out.
4. Musty or Strange Odors: Trust your nose! If something smells off, it could be a sign of mold or mildew caused by a leak. And if there are a lot of strong air fresheners, they could be covering up an unpleasant smell. Don’t be afraid to ask about it.
5. Poor Renovation Work: Renovations can add a lot of value, but only if done well. Watch for signs like misaligned cabinets, sloppy tiling, or unfinished edges. Poor-quality renovations might mean bigger issues down the line if they haven’t been completed to code. Are the cabinets misaligned? Does the tile look sloppy? Bad workmanship can be a sign that the house might have deeper issues that were handled poorly.
6. Electrical Issues: Flickering lights, exposed wiring, or an outdated electrical panel can all be warning signs. Flip a few switches, check the outlets, and make sure everything looks modern and safe. Electrical work is one area you don’t want to cut corners on.
7. Old or Damaged Roofing: Roof replacement is no small task. If you notice missing or curling shingles, or if the roof looks generally aged, it’s worth finding out more. The age and condition of the roof are critical for ensuring the overall safety and longevity of the home. Look for missing or curling shingles and don’t be shy about asking how old the roof is. A solid roof is key to keeping your new home in good shape.
8. Poor Drainage Around the Property: Take a look at the yard—does it slope toward the house? Are there pools of standing water? Poor drainage can lead to foundation issues or flooding. Also, check if downspouts have extenders that direct water at least 6 feet away from the home. Proper drainage helps prevent costly damage. Poor drainage can lead to foundation problems or flooding, and it’s definitely something to avoid. Also, check the downspouts—downspout extenders should reach at least 6 feet from the home to properly direct water from the roof away from the foundation.
9. Inadequate Ventilation: A house needs to breathe. Make sure there’s proper ventilation in kitchens and bathrooms—these should be vented to the outside. Without good ventilation, you could end up with mold or rot over time.
10. Pest Damage: Be on the lookout for signs of pests, like droppings, chewed wood, or small holes. Termites and other pests can cause serious damage, so it’s important to catch any signs of infestation early.
11. Neighborhood Red Flags: It’s not just about the house itself—take a walk around the neighborhood. If there are a lot of vacant homes or signs of neglect, it could affect both your property value and how much you enjoy living there. A good neighborhood can make all the difference.

Buying a home is a big deal, especially here in Wisconsin, where community, comfort, and value are everything. In my experience, taking a balanced approach is key.

It’s important to take a balanced approach when evaluating homes. While understanding the condition of the home is crucial, you also need to consider how well it suits your particular needs. Whether you need space for a growing family, a convenient location for your commute, or a backyard for summer barbecues, these personal factors are just as significant as the condition of the property.

Sometimes, market conditions might require you to adjust your expectations. In a competitive market, you may need to overlook some cosmetic issues or be flexible about certain features to secure a home that fits your overall needs. Ultimately, you can only choose from the homes that are available, and finding the right balance between condition, price, and personal preferences is key.

By keeping an eye out for these red flags, you can feel confident that you’re making a more informed decision. Whether you’re going for a move-in-ready home or willing to tackle some renovations, understanding what you’re dealing with upfront can save you from unexpected stress and costs. And remember, you don’t have to go it alone—bring along a trusted Realtor or inspector to help you out. If you need more advice or have questions about what to watch for, I’m always here to help. Just give me a shout, and let’s make sure your next move is a great one!