7 Property Flaws You Shouldn't Overlook when Buying a Home ...

1. Older Windows

If you’re buying a home, pay extra attention to the property’s windows and doors. They don't have to be the newest styles. However, if the windows and doors appear to be over 15 or 20 years old, they may not provide the best insulation. As a result, you might pay higher heating and cooling bills.

2. Musty Odors

Several things contribute to home odors, such as a pet, the trash and soiled carpet. These odors are usually fixable, and not necessarily a deal breaker when buying a home. But if you notice a musty odor as you walk through the house, there's a chance that the home has mold. If you decide to bid on this house, make sure you schedule a mold inspection, and make your bid contingent on a satisfactory inspection.

3. Watermarks

Whether these marks are on the ceilings or walls, watermarks indicate a past water leak or water damage. This doesn't suggest that there's an issue with the house. If the previous homeowner caught the issue early and properly repaired any water leaks, the house is probably mold-free. Still, it doesn't hurt to have a mold inspection before completing the sale.

4. Signs of Rodents

Many property buyers open closets to check the amount of storage in a home, but some don’t look underneath cabinets in the kitchen and bathrooms. These areas can provide indication as to what lives in the house. For example, if you see roach bait under a cabinet, or if you see mouse droppings, you might have an insect or rodent problem in the future. Get a pest inspection to ensure the house is clear.

5. Older Appliances

Most sellers will replace appliances that are broken, but they're not required to update outdated appliances. If you look through a house and notice that the refrigerator, stove, dishwasher, or washer and dryer are very old, consider whether you're able to afford newer models if you purchased the house. You can ask the seller to update dated models in the bid, but there are no guarantees.

6. Cracks in the Walls

There are several different reasons for cracks in the walls. In all likelihood, cracks result from the home settling over the years. But sometimes, a crack in the wall can signal a problem with the home’s foundation. If you notice such problems, it’s crucial to arrange for a professional foundation inspection to assess the situation.  This can be a costly problem in the future. Consider whether you want to deal with this potential risk.

7. Cut-through Street

Even if the property’s located in a subdivision, its street might provide a cut-through to a major roadway. As a result, many vehicles may cut through your street during the day. Ask yourself: Do I want to deal with this amount of traffic everyday? It’s worth consideration if you have young children who play outdoors.

Buying a home is one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make, and it’s one of the costliest decisions. Therefore, you need to make the right choice and select a house based on logic, not emotions. What do you consider a deal-breaker when buying a home?