5 Red Flags to Watch for During a Home Tour

Touring a home can be exciting, especially if it looks great on paper. But don’t let fresh paint and trendy staging fool you—some homes hide major issues in plain sight. If you're serious about buying, knowing what red flags to look for during a home tour can save you thousands in repairs or a major headache down the road.

Here are 5 warning signs you shouldn’t ignore when walking through a property.

 1. Strong Odors or Overpowering Scents

A pleasant smell is nice—but if a home is filled with candles, plug-ins, or air fresheners in every room, the seller might be trying to mask something.

Be cautious if you notice:

• Strong perfume-like scents

• Musty or damp smells (indicating mold or moisture issues)

• Pet odors or cigarette smoke beneath the surface

Pro tip: Step outside and come back in with a fresh nose. Smells tell stories that photos can’t.

 2. Cracks in Walls, Ceilings, or Foundation

Hairline cracks can be normal with settling—but larger cracks might signal structural problems.

Look out for:

• Stair-step cracks in brick or drywall

• Cracks wider than 1/4 inch

• Doors or windows that stick or don’t close properly

If you spot anything concerning, consult a home inspector or structural engineer before moving forward.

 3. Signs of Water Damage

Water is one of the most expensive issues to fix—and one of the easiest to hide temporarily.

During your tour, check for:

• Water stains on ceilings or walls

• Warped flooring or bubbling paint

• Mold around baseboards, windows, or under sinks

Don’t forget to inspect under rugs and in less obvious areas like utility closets and behind toilets.

 4. Poor Drainage or Grading Around the Property

The outside matters just as much as the inside. Poor drainage or grading can lead to foundation problems, basement flooding, or erosion.

Check:

• If the yard slopes toward the home (not good)

• Signs of standing water or soggy ground after rain

• Rust on exterior HVAC units or foundation cracks near downspouts

Ask about water management systems like sump pumps or French drains if you see any concerns.

5. Too Many Recent “Quick Fixes”

New paint, flooring, or light fixtures are great—but if everything has been redone cheaply and quickly, it could be an attempt to hide deeper issues.

Red flags include:

• Fresh paint on just one wall (could be hiding a stain)

• Gaps around baseboards, trim, or outlets

• New finishes covering outdated plumbing or electrical systems

Always ask when updates were done—and if they were DIY or professionally completed.

 Bonus Tip: Bring an Experienced Realtor

A trained eye can spot trouble long before it becomes your problem. A great real estate agent will help you identify red flags, ask the right questions, and make sure you don't overlook costly issues in the excitement of touring.

Final Thoughts

A home might look picture-perfect online, but it’s what’s hiding beneath the surface that matters most. Watch out for these red flags during your tour and always trust your gut. When in doubt, walk away—it’s better to lose a house than get stuck with a lemon.