3 Red Flags Home buyers Should Look Out for

Looking for a new home? Whether you’re relocating, looking for a summer property, or hoping to become a first-time home buyer, purchasing a residential property is a major decision that should not be rushed or taken lightly. Because buying a home is such a serious commitment, taking your time to do thorough research and gather all the information you need to make a well-informed purchase. While a title company in Boca Raton can guide and support you through the home buying process, knowing what to look for beforehand can help you avoid wasting time and money.

These three major red flags should not be ignored if you’re looking for a new home.

Rushed Sales

Sometimes if it looks too good to be true, it is. If you find a home where the owner seems desperate to get rid of it, that should give you pause. Rushed sales can be a sign of something that’s not right beneath the surface—either literally or figuratively. Some home owners can afford serious repairs, and so opt to sell their property instead. However, because major renovations are so expensive, they can make a house impossible to sell. Home owners may withhold this kind of information and feign ignorance is hopes of getting more value from their property.

Rushed sales may also be caused by a desire to get ahead of legal issues. Most short sales are caused by financial need to break a mortgage contract, which allows the new owner to take over. This information should be disclosed from the beginning, but it may not be—especially if the amount owed is excessive. Thankfully a title search conducted by a title agency in Boca Raton can reveal any outstanding loans, liens, or property taxes associated with your potential new home.

Maintenance Issues

With home ownership comes a slew of responsibilities, including proactive measures for maintaining your property. However, sometimes issues that have been brewing under the surface for years or decades crop up after you make your purchase. Knowing what signs to look for that may point toward underlying problems like structural or plumbing issues, mold, or poor ventilation can save you thousands of dollars in the long run.

When touring a home, look for:

• Uneven, warped flooring
• Cracks in the walls, floor, or ceiling
• Stains and water damage on the ceilings
• Poorly maintained gutter systems
• Signs of hasty repairs:
  • uneven plastering
  • mixed matched tiles
  • improperly installed light switch or outlet covers
  • random spots of new paint
  • cracks in or around sinks, toilets, or tubs

Pest Issues

Home sellers may attempt to conceal pest problems like ants, roaches, termites, or rodents. While a quick cleaning can hide the most obvious signs, other tell-tale signs are more difficult to camouflage. Pay attention to small holes in the corners of rooms, especially closets or the kitchen. Rotting or damaged wood around the property may point toward termites. Check nooks behind appliances for droppings or signs of rodent nesting.

Have you found your dream home? If you’re ready to take the next step, Expert Title Company can help! Contact us today and let us tell you how!