For veterans, buying a home is a huge achievement, especially when you can take advantage of the greatest benefit afforded to veterans.
A zero down VA loan with no mortgage insurance.
But in today’s competitive housing market—where prices are climbing and homes are in short supply—it’s more important than ever to stay sharp while house hunting.
Making sure the property is the right fit and doesn’t come with any hidden issues can save you from costly repairs later on. Whether you’re using a VA loan or another type of financing, here are 10 red flags to watch for when touring a potential new home.
Table of Contents
1. Foundation Cracks and Structural Issues
A home’s foundation is critical to its overall stability. Any cracks or signs of structural issues are serious red flags, as they could mean expensive repairs down the road. Veterans using VA loans should be particularly cautious since the VA has strict standards for the structural soundness of homes.
- Visible cracks in the foundation: Horizontal cracks are usually more problematic than vertical ones and can indicate severe structural issues.
- Uneven or sloping floors: Floors that aren’t level can suggest settling problems with the foundation, leading to further damage.
- Doors or windows that don’t close properly: This may indicate shifting in the home’s structure.
- Bulging or bowing walls: These are signs of pressure on the foundation and can lead to collapse if not repaired.
Expert Insight: “Foundation issues can be a financial burden for veterans. A professional inspection is crucial to avoid unexpected costs,” advises Mark Patterson, Senior VA Loan Specialist at Valor Mortgage Solutions.
2. Water Damage and Mold
Water damage is one of the most common and costly home repair issues. It often lurks in hidden areas, but signs like stains or a musty smell can be early indicators of bigger problems, such as mold growth.
- Discoloration on walls and ceilings: Stains or bubbles could indicate past or ongoing water leaks.
- Mold growth: Black or green mold, especially in humid areas like basements or near windows, can be a major health risk.
- Musty or damp smells: If the home smells overly “fresh,” air fresheners may be masking the real issue.
- Leaky pipes or standing water: Check under sinks, around toilets, and in the basement for any signs of leaks or pooled water.
- Sagging ceilings or walls: These could indicate water damage inside the structure, which can be costly to repair.
3. Outdated Electrical Systems
Older homes often have outdated electrical systems that aren’t equipped to handle modern energy demands. Electrical issues aren’t just inconvenient—they can also pose a serious fire hazard.
- Flickering lights or frequent outages: This could indicate faulty wiring or an overloaded system.
- Exposed or frayed wiring: This is a clear sign of outdated and unsafe electrical systems.
- Insufficient outlets: Ensure the home has enough outlets in every room, especially in areas where you’ll be using multiple devices.
- Old fuse boxes or breaker panels: Older systems may need to be updated to handle the demands of modern electronics.
- Two-pronged outlets: Homes with outdated outlets may need rewiring to support grounded (three-pronged) systems.
4. Pest Infestations
Pest problems can range from minor annoyances to severe structural damage, particularly in the case of termites. Pest infestations are also a no-go for VA loans, which require homes to be free from termite issues.
- Wood damage or small holes: These are tell-tale signs of termites.
- Mud tubes along walls or wooden beams: Another sign of termite activity.
- Droppings or foul odors: Rodent infestations often leave visible droppings or a musty smell.
- Chewed wiring or baseboards: This can indicate rodents or other pests gnawing at your home’s structure.
- Presence of ants or cockroaches: Check for trails of ants or droppings from cockroaches, as these are common pests in older homes.
| Pest Type | Signs of Infestation |
|---|---|
| Termites | Wood damage, mud tubes, small holes |
| Rodents | Droppings, chewed wires, noises |
| Ants | Ant trails, nests in walls/floors |
| Cockroaches | Musty odors, droppings, egg casings |
5. Roof Issues
A roof in bad condition can cost tens of thousands of dollars to repair or replace. Given the importance of a sturdy roof, especially for VA loan eligibility, any sign of roof damage should be taken seriously.
- Missing or damaged shingles: Look for shingles that are cracked, curled, or missing entirely.
- Water spots on ceilings: These may indicate that the roof is leaking, leading to internal damage.
- Sagging roofline: If the roof appears uneven or sagging, it could indicate structural damage.
- Damaged flashing: Check around chimneys, vents, and skylights to see if the roof’s flashing is damaged or missing.
- Excessive granule loss: Asphalt shingles shed granules over time, but an excessive amount in the gutters might indicate the roof is nearing the end of its life.
Pro Tip: Since VA loans require the home to have a roof in good condition, unresolved roof issues could hold up your approval process.
6. Poor Ventilation and HVAC Problems
A properly functioning HVAC system is essential for comfort and energy efficiency. If the home’s ventilation system isn’t up to par, you could face higher energy bills and poor indoor air quality.
- Outdated HVAC systems: Ask about the age of the HVAC unit. Systems older than 15 years may need replacement soon.
- Inconsistent temperatures: If some rooms feel hotter or colder than others, it might indicate poor ventilation or HVAC issues.
- Blocked or dirty vents: Check for dust buildup or blockages in the vents, which can affect airflow.
- Loud noises from the furnace or air conditioner: This could signal mechanical problems.
- High energy bills: Ask the current owners about their energy costs. A poorly maintained HVAC system often leads to higher bills.
7. Inadequate Insulation
Without proper insulation, homes can lose heat in the winter and cool air in the summer, leading to higher energy costs. Veterans planning to live in colder climates should be especially mindful of this.
- Drafts near windows and doors: If you feel cold air seeping in, it could mean inadequate insulation.
- Old or inefficient windows: Single-pane windows or windows with broken seals are common sources of heat loss.
- Lack of attic insulation: Check the attic to ensure it’s properly insulated, as this is a key area for energy efficiency.
- Energy audit: Ask if the home has undergone an energy audit or has been updated for energy efficiency.
Expert Quote: “Energy efficiency is crucial for long-term savings, and veterans using VA loans should ensure their home is well-insulated,” says Laura Hastings, Real Estate Agent at Veterans Realty Group.
8. Outdated Plumbing
Plumbing issues can be a nightmare, leading to water damage, mold growth, and expensive repairs. Older homes with outdated plumbing are especially prone to problems.
- Low water pressure: Test all faucets and showers to ensure the water pressure is adequate.
- Slow drainage: Check for slow-draining sinks, showers, or toilets, which could indicate clogs or pipe issues.
- Signs of corrosion: Inspect under sinks and around faucets for leaks or corroded pipes.
- Old water heaters: Ask about the age of the water heater, as older models may not be as efficient or reliable.
9. Odd or Poorly Done Renovations
DIY renovations can save money for homeowners, but if they’re not done right, they can lead to costly repairs for future buyers. Uneven floors, mismatched fixtures, and poorly installed features are all signs of subpar work.
- Patchy paint jobs: Look for areas where the paint seems uneven or hastily applied, which may indicate low-quality workmanship.
- Uneven tile or flooring: Poorly installed flooring can lead to future problems and indicate sloppy renovations.
- Mismatched fixtures or finishes: If the fixtures seem out of place or not properly installed, it could signal unprofessional renovations.
- Ask about permits: Always ask whether the renovations were done with proper permits and by licensed professionals.
10. Neighborhood Red Flags
Even if the house checks all the boxes, the surrounding neighborhood can make or break your investment. Do your research to ensure the area aligns with your lifestyle and will retain its value over time.
- Many homes for sale: A high number of homes for sale can indicate a declining neighborhood.
- Abandoned or neglected homes: If neighboring homes are in poor condition, it can negatively impact property values.
- Excessive noise or traffic: Visit the area at different times of the day to assess traffic, noise levels, and overall activity.
- Proximity to amenities: Check how close the neighborhood is to schools, parks, shopping centers, and healthcare facilities.
- Crime rates: Research crime statistics to ensure you’re moving into a safe area.
| Neighborhood Factor | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Nearby Amenities | Parks, schools, shopping |
| Safety | Crime rates, neighborhood watch |
| Traffic | High traffic at peak hours |
| School District | Quality for families with kids |
Benefits of VA Loans for Homebuyers
The VA loan program offers veterans a big advantage when buying a home. Here are some of the top perks:
- No Down Payment: Eligible veterans can buy without putting any money down, which is a game-changer in expensive markets.
- No PMI: You don’t have to worry about private mortgage insurance, so your monthly payments are lower.
- Competitive Interest Rates: VA loans often come with lower interest rates, making them a smart financial choice.
FAQs About Red Flags in Home Buying
1. What should I do if I find a foundation crack in the home?
Foundation cracks can be serious. Have a professional inspection done before making an offer to assess the extent of the damage.
2. How can I tell if there is water damage in the home?
Look for stains on ceilings, musty smells, or peeling paint around windows and sinks. A home inspection can also reveal hidden water issues.
3. Is it worth buying a home with a damaged roof?
Roof repairs can be costly, so if the roof is in poor condition, it might be worth negotiating a lower price or asking the seller to fix it before closing.
4. Are pest infestations a deal-breaker?
Pests can cause significant damage, especially termites. If the infestation is severe, it may not be worth pursuing the property.
5. What are the biggest electrical red flags?
Outdated wiring, flickering lights, or limited outlets can all signal electrical issues that need to be addressed before moving forward.
6. Can I negotiate repairs after the home inspection?
Yes, the inspection report can serve as leverage to negotiate repairs or ask for a price reduction to cover the cost of repairs.
7. How important is neighborhood research?
Very important. You want to make sure the neighborhood aligns with your lifestyle and will maintain or increase its value over time.
Conclusion
When viewing a home, it’s crucial to stay alert for red flags that could lead to costly repairs or issues down the road. As a veteran, taking advantage of the VA loan program’s benefits—like no down payment and competitive rates—puts you in a strong buying position.
But remember, being thorough during the viewing process will ensure that you make the best possible investment in your future home.
