Home Buying Deal Breakers

When you’re looking for a home, there are plenty of details to keep in mind, from things like the nearby schools to the floor plan. With so many details, many people can overlook the glaring problems that should send them packing. These are just a few of the big problems you may find when looking for a home. If you see any of these, it’s probably best to turn tail and run. If you don’t, it could end up costing you a lot of time and money, either immediately or sometime in the future.

Deal Breaker #1: A Poorly Maintained or Aging Roof

A well-maintained, high quality roof can last 30 years or more, but one that’s been left to its own devices will not. It’s important to get as much information about the roof. You may be able to see cracks and damage from the ground, but consider getting it inspected by a professional before making any final decisions. Be aware that a new roof can cost anywhere from $10,000 to $30,000, so if the one the house has won’t due, that’s how much more you’ll have to pay to make it livable once more. So if you see a cracked and broken roof and they aren’t willing to budge on the price, it’s time to move on.

Deal Breaker #2: Flooding

Flooding is expensive and damaging. In a single bad storm, it can completely turn your life upside down, and leave you with precious belongings that are forever ruined. Even if you aren’t near a body of water, flooding can impact your home. Be sure to search out for any signs of previous floods, or potential signs that house could flood. This includes things like foundation cracks and obvious repairs and renovations that usually occur after flooding, like redone windows or simply nothing touching the walls. Be sure to head to the municipality to check the flood zones in the area to see if your home is in that kind of area. Ask about any past problems as well, and consider having the house inspected to lessen any surprises that could come after a heavy rainfall or simply in the spring. If you see it’s in the zone, and not care has been taken to stop floods, move on.

Deal Breaker #3: A Bad History

From poor maintenance by former owners to patch-up renovations that could fall apart in a few years time, a home’s history can and will cause problems for any future owners. Be sure to inquire about previous owners and any and all repairs. Ask if they were done by professionals, handymen, or on their own. If it wasn’t a licensed contractor, ask why and have the home’s plumbing and electrical systems thoroughly inspected. If the owners are unwilling to give up that information, move on. A house can have secrets, but those secrets should be your own.

With so many things in a home that need your attention, it can be hard to see the big problems. But these three things are major deal breakers when looking for a home, as they can all end up costing you far too much in the future. So if you see these, be sure to move on. It probably isn’t worth it.