5 Potential Red Flags to Look Out for When Viewing a Home

1. Music Playing 

Although this can create a great atmosphere for a showing, be prudent in paying attention to things such as proximity to highways, airports and perhaps any construction surrounding the property.  Music can be used to create a relaxing experience during a showing but can also be used to mask noises surrounding the home. 

2. Strong Scented Spray or Candles Burning

This can sometimes simply be a personal preference of the Seller but can sometimes be used to mask unusual odors in a home.  If you have concerns, my suggestion would be to request a second showing.  Ask the seller politely to not burn any candles or spray aromas prior to the showing.  Things like mold or tobacco smoke are both problems with strong odours that can have a major effect on the value of a home.  

3. Seller Not Allowing Access to Certain Areas of the Home 

Secrecy is never a good sign when selling a home.  Often, we see units that are tenanted with access only granted after an offer is accepted.  Also, with the recent changes that COVID-19 has brought to the Real Estate Market some sellers are only granting access to their homes after a successful offer is negotiated to avoid any potential risk that additional showings may cause.  These two scenarios are quite common, and would not consider them to be a Red Flag.  However, in both of these cases I would suggest adding a condition to your offer that allows you to view the space and proceed with the offer once that has been done. On the contrary, if a room of a home is locked and access is not granted and not explained, ask for photos of inside the space or ask to return back for a second showing when access to that space can be granted.  If access/photos or conditions of viewing the space are not accepted by the sellers proceed with caution. 

4. Sellers Who State That The Home Will Be Sold “as is” 

This is essentially a statement indicating that the home will be sold in the current state of repair despite any deficiencies found by a buyer.  My recommendation is to always have a home inspected regardless of if the home is being sold “as is” or if the sellers are willing to do work.  Being aware of deficiencies if any is always prudent so that you can budget for any repairs needed.  

5. For Sale by Owner That Won’t Allow Buyers to Bring their Realtors 

Although this can be due to the seller hoping to avoid paying a commission, a diligent seller would recognize that Realtors work with qualified and serious buyers.  If a Seller is not allowing you to have a professional represent you, this can be a Red Flag. Realtors will negotiate on your behalf, and let you know if we feel the house is priced over, at or below market value.  Information you might not have known without an experienced professional on your side.  Realtors can also help you address any concerns you might have regarding the home with clauses added to the offer to protect you. These issues or concerns might have gone unnoticed or unaddressed without having a professional to guide you.