Most homebuyers realize that they can’t expect a perfect home inspection report when 
buying a resale home. Cosmetic flaws and minor repairs are easily managed and shouldn’t be dealbreakers. That said, there are some issues that are more serious and should give the buyer pause if not addressed adequately.
10 Home Inspection Red Flags
LeakyandRundownRoofing–watchforsignsofcurrentorpastwater damage.
PoorDrainage–drainageissuescancauseseriousdamagetothehome foundation, siding, and basements.
FoundationIssues–signsoffoundationproblemscanincludecracks around doors and windows or uneven floors. Foundation problems can cost thousands of dollars to correct.
PlumbingProblems–majorplumbingissuesshouldbeconsideredcarefully and further explored.
PestInfestations–termitesandotherwood-eatingpestscancause extensive damage that can be hard to find and costly to repair.
Mold–that“musty”smellcouldbeduetohiddenmoldandfurther investigation should be taken as mold can be dangerous to the health of the family. Depending on the type of mold, it can be very difficult to remove entirely.
Faulty Heating System – a malfunctioning furnace can be a fire hazard.
ElectricalWiring–faultywiringcancostthousandsofdollarstorepair.
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StructuralDamage–saggingjoists,rafters,anddoorjambscanbeevidence
of larger issues.
10.Deferred Maintenance – a home in poor condition could be hiding more
serious issues due to chronic neglect.
Homebuyers should be alert to these issues and know the costs to repair before concluding the sale. And home sellers may think about addressing these issues before putting the home up for sale to ensure they get the best possible sales price.
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