Key ‘signs’ a seller is ‘covering up issues’ with a property - ‘expensive to replace!’

With this in mind, some experts at The Home Depot have shared the “red flags” homebuyers need to look out for when viewing and buying a property. One of the most “important” aspects buyers

should inspect is the exterior of a property.

The experts said: “Curb appeal is important. Inspect the property for hidden concerns drainage issues pests and trees vulnerable to storms can be bigger issues down the line.”

Hairline cracks are not always an indication of a problem but a crack wider than half an inch should be examined by an expert.

Cracks that have been patched up or large cracks could indicate an issue with the foundations.

The experts added: “Check the foundations for cracks the roof and gutters for leaks and make sure electrical and plumbing are up to date.

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"These are red flags that can be large expenses down the line.”

Water stains are also a key indicator of a roof problem. Even a small amount of water from a window or a roof can cause larger structural problems if it’s not sorted out.

Brown or yellow water stains could be an indication of a plumbing problem up above.

It’s best not to put in an offer until these issues are looked at by an expert who can determine the exact cause.

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The experts also warned buyers to “keep an eye out for sellers’ attempts to cover up issues”.

They added: “Look for an abundance of air fresheners, amateur workmanship and patches of new paint.

“A home that is too cold or too hot can be a sign of a faulty heating, ventilation or conditioning unit which are expensive to replace.”

A new lick of paint isn’t always a sign of a problem. In fact, it’s quite normal for sellers to give walls a refresh before putting homes on the market.

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However, fresh paint in an unusual area or in a particular patch should be questioned as it could be trying to cover up something.

New paint on just one wall in a room or spot painting could be an indication of a water stain, for example.

Again, strong air fresheners aren’t particularly surprising when viewing homes as the seller will be looking to make the best impression they can of their home.

However, strong diffusers or air freshener smells in every room could be a sign of a seller trying to cover up a pungent smell.

Sellers could be covering up the scent of soiled carpets, mould growth, damp or a dodgy plumbing system.

If a home is on the market for a well below market value, there could be a good reason why.

Sometimes, homes that are priced very low can have expensive problems that could cost thousands to repair.

But this isn’t always the case as some sellers simply want a quick sale for personal or financial reasons.

If in doubt, get the property surveyed to check for any underlying issues that could cost you further down the line.

For those who do discover a problem after buying a property, all is not lost.

If the problem is discovered before completion, a buyer can pull out of the sale, demand the seller reduces the price or pays for the problem to be fixed.

If issues are uncovered after completion, a buyer may be able to argue that the seller misrepresented the condition of the property.

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