Red Flags to Look Out For When Touring Homes

It is always in your best interest to have an idea of red flags to look out for as you are on your journey to finding your dream home near Lake of the Ozarks! Touring home after home can seem daunting, but not when you are mentally prepared on what to keep an eye of for before you make such an important, long-term purchase! Here are some red flags to keep in the back of your mind as you tour homes!


Old or Damaged Windows

Windows can be expensive to replace! Examine windows carefully and thoroughly to look for cracks and other damages.

Clutter and Furniture

People sometimes stage homes intentionally to hide certain areas they don’t want you to see. This could be because there is a hole in wall, a leak, a dent, etc. Try to look beyond the objects take initiative to look behind furniture, rugs, or any other clutter that may be in the way.

Plumbing

Check showers, toilets, faucets for signs of leaks or an issue. This can also be an expensive fix or replacement. 

Signs of Mold

Investigate bathrooms, garages, basements, and closets for any signs of mold. These areas are ideal places for mold to grow. Mold can cause serious health problems you don’t want to move into a mold infested home!

Foundation Failures

Check out the yard, see if the yard slopes towards the house which could cause all the water to run towards the house into the basement. It is also smart to check the foundation for any damages like cracks and bulges. Always get the house inspected.

Do a Nighttime Drive By

The nighttime can sometimes be a different environment than during the day in some areas. It is good to get a feel of how the neighborhood is; if it is loud, bright with lights, if you feel safe.

Bug Repellents or Mouse Traps

A good indicator there are some unwelcome guests enter in the home, are mouse traps or insect traps. It is ok to ask about these and how often this happens, so you are prepared to decide with all the facts presented.


Check the Water Heater

Check the date on the water heater, these normally last about six to ten years. This can be a very expensive item to replace, and no one wants to shower in cold water because of a broken-down water heater.

Too Many Air Fresheners, Windows Open, and Dehumidifiers

People will want the house to smell nice when they are expecting visitors. But having an excessive amount of air fresheners, candles, dehumidifiers, and open windows could indicate they are trying to mask the smell of something. Whether it is the smell of urine, animals, smoke, sewer problems, you want to be aware of these and not overlook this red flag!




These red flags are ones you do not want to ignore. It is always best to be forward with the current owners and inquire about any concerns you have after your tour, before making any decision. Make sure before you buy a home to get a professional to do an inspection on the home.

Get pre-approved for a home loan at the Lake of the Ozarks to search for home in your price range. Once you found the home that you know is the one, our team at MHQ Mortgage Headquarters is here to help you start the home loan process so you can get moved into your dream home near Lake of the Ozarks.






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Osage Beach, MO 65065

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