A lot of first-time homebuyers are facing obstacles these days, including a highly competitive housing market. So, when given the chance to purchase a new home, many may overlook issues with a house in order to close the deal as quickly as possible, while others may not even know what to look out for.
13 Deal-Breakers When Buying Your First Home
If you’re a first-time homebuyer, you will want to pay close attention to these home-buying red flags that could be deal-breakers.
1. Structural Instability
One of the first signs a home buyer should look for in a potential home is straight lines. This is a good indication that the house is sound with no structural issues. A home buyer should look for a straight roofline and walls that aren’t leaning, twisting, or warping. They should also make sure floors aren’t sloping, as this can indicate a potential structural problem. To test if floors are uneven, simply place a marble on the floor to see if it rolls away.
Grading around the home is also critical because if the ground is pitched toward the home, rainwater will run into the foundation rather than away from it. Look for standing water pooling around the property, which could indicate poor drainage. Be sure to walk around the house and check for foundation cracks—hairline and vertical cracks aren’t generally a concern, however, horizontal cracks, both inside and outside the home, can point to a problem that will be expensive to fix. A structural engineer may be able to help you determine the risk, but overall, these signs are usually red flags.
2. Lead Paint
Homes built before 1978 may contain lead paint, since lead paint was commonly used before it was banned for residential use. A simple lead test is typically part of the inspection process and this should not be bypassed as exposure to lead can cause health issues.
If lead-based paint is present, painting or disturbing those surfaces can cost more because contractors must follow specific safety precautions to protect the home, its residents, neighbors, and themselves from the dangers of lead exposure. Older homes that need painting aren’t automatically a problem, but they do require testing to see if additional measures are necessary.
3. Solar Installations
Solar panels themselves are not a red flag, but how the previous homeowner paid for the system might be. Some solar installations are financed through leasing or power purchase agreements, rather than paid for outright by the homeowner. When that’s the case, the home buyer needs to realize that they might be required to enter into an existing contract with a third-party solar company if they buy the house. It’s a good idea to ask if the solar system is owned, financed, leased, or under a power purchase agreement, and then ask for a copy of the solar contract and carefully read the terms before finalizing the purchase.
4. Chimney Condition
Chimneys deserve close inspection when purchasing a home. A visibly leaning chimney or a chimney that is separating from the house may be very expensive to repair, especially if rebuilding is required. A chimney inspection by a licensed mason or chimney professional can determine if the issue is repairable, cosmetic, or structural.
5. Evidence of Water Damage or Mold
Musty odors, water stains on ceilings or walls, or efflorescence (a white powdery residue) on basement walls are major red flags that there has been ongoing moisture problems. Persistent moisture can lead to mold growth and may compromise air quality. Water stains on the home’s exterior, especially around windows, could indicate prolonged moisture issues.
6. Aging or Compromised Roof
A roof nearing the end of its 20- to 30-year lifespan is a looming expense. Look for cracked shingles, missing granules, or sagging rooflines, which suggest wear or an issue like wood rot. While an old roof doesn’t have to be a deal-breaker, it’s good to know if you should be prepared for the expense of repairing or replacing it. Be sure to ask about the roof’s age and maintenance history.
7. Outdated Electrical Wiring
Some older homes may still utilize knob-and-tube or aluminum branch wiring. These systems can affect insurance eligibility and may not meet modern standards of handling today’s electrical loads, which may pose a fire hazard.
8. HVAC System Condition
The condition of the HVAC system should be a top priority since it’s the main source of a home’s comfort, providing heat in the winter and cool air in the summer Uneven temperatures, strange noises, or musty odors could indicate a maintenance issue or that the system is old and in need of replacement. An HVAC system typically lasts 10 to 20 years, so request the records of service to learn more about its condition.
9. Termite or Pest Infestation
Wood-destroying termites or carpenter ants can cause hidden structural damage. Check for “mud tubes” along the foundation, hollow-sounding timber, and damaged framing. Calling for a pest or termite inspection may be a smart decision if you suspect there may be an infestation since a general inspection may not uncover hidden damage.
10. Location
You can change the kitchen, but you cannot change the location of your home. Proximity to high-traffic industrial zones, flood-prone areas, or upcoming major highway expansions can affect noise levels, insurance costs, and long-term resale value. Make sure to check flood maps, zoning plans, and development proposals to learn of any potential red flags.
11. Aging Sewer Lines and Plumbing Systems
Older houses may be have aging sewer lines that are vulnerable to tree root intrusion, which can cause sewage backups. If the home has a septic system, a failed leach field is a high-cost deal-breaker that requires immediate attention. Persistent drainage problems or backups are signs of unresolved plumbing issues that can lead to very expensive repairs down the line.
12. Unpermitted Additions and Renovations
DIY finished basements,sunrooms, or additions built without municipal permits may not meet building codes. While these renovations may be aesthetically pleasing, they can create safety concerns as well as legal liabilities. You may be liable for bringing them into compliance with local zoning laws or even tearing them down to do so.
13. Environmental Hazards
Older houses may contain lead-based paint, asbestos-containing materials,, or elevated levels of radon. Fortunately, testing for lead, radon, and asbestos are common steps in the home-buying process. If the presence of any of these are detected, however, specialized (and expensive) mitigation will be necessary. These are particularly concerning for buyers with young children or respiratory issues.
What Are Really Deal-Breakers?
Your dream home might have one, some, or even all of these red flags, and might not stop you from buying. But if you’re going to make an offer on a home that shows some concerning signs, make sure to set aside a budget for any necessary repairs. And remember, you don’t have to tackle everything all at once.