First-Time Buyer Alert: 10 Red Flags to Watch for When Buying a Home

Buying your first home is exciting—but it can also be overwhelming. It’s easy to fall in love with a house’s charm while missing signs that it may not be the smart investment you hoped for. Whether you're shopping in Bend, Redmond, or nearby Central Oregon towns, here are 10 red flags first-time buyers should watch out for:

1. Fresh Paint in Just One Spot

A newly painted wall or ceiling in an otherwise outdated room may be covering water damage or cracks. Ask why it was done—and inspect what's underneath.

2. Foundation Cracks or Uneven Floors

Cracks in walls, sticking doors, or sloped floors can signal serious structural issues. In Central Oregon, shifting soil or freeze-thaw cycles can impact foundations, so a home inspection is critical.

3. Strong Odors or Overuse of Scents

If a home smells heavily of candles, plug-ins, or air fresheners, the seller may be masking pet smells, smoke, mold, or mildew.

4. DIY Electrical or Plumbing Work

Unpermitted or amateur repairs are common in older homes. Look for mismatched outlets, exposed wires, or irregular piping—these can create code violations or safety risks.

5. Signs of Water Damage

Look for water stains on ceilings, soft spots near windows, or warped baseboards. In Bend, ice dams or poor drainage are common culprits.

6. Old or Failing Roof

Roof replacements can cost $10,000 or more. Look for curled shingles, moss buildup, or water spots in the attic. Ask when the roof was last replaced.

7. HVAC or Water Heater Age

If systems are over 15–20 years old, replacement costs could hit soon after closing. Ask for service records and check the energy efficiency of each unit.

8. Low Water Pressure

Turn on faucets and showers during your tour. Poor pressure could indicate old plumbing, pipe blockages, or shared well issues, especially in rural Central Oregon.

9. Neighborhood Neglect

Look beyond the house. Are neighboring homes well-kept? A declining area could affect resale value. Research school zones, crime rates, and development plans.

10. Too Many Days on Market or Price Cuts

If a home has sat unsold for a long time or had repeated price drops, ask your agent why. There could be hidden issues or overpricing that others already noticed.

📝 Pro Tip:

Always get a home inspection from a licensed professional. They can uncover hidden issues that even experienced buyers might miss.

✅ Looking for a home in Bend or Central Oregon?

Let’s make sure your first home is a smart, solid investment—not a money pit. I’m happy to connect you with inspectors, lenders, and guide you through every step.

FAQs

Q: Do I really need a home inspection?

A: Yes! A licensed home inspector can uncover hidden issues like foundation damage, mold, or faulty wiring. Skipping an inspection can cost you thousands later.

Q: How can I tell if a home has structural problems?

A: Look for cracks in walls, uneven floors, sticking doors/windows, or sloped rooms. A professional should assess any suspected foundation issues.

Q: What’s the biggest red flag to look for?

A: Water damage. It’s often a sign of leaks, poor drainage, or mold. Check ceilings, basements, around windows, and under sinks for discoloration or stains.

Q: Should I worry if a house has been on the market a long time?

A: Not always—but it's worth asking why. It could be overpriced, need repairs, or have a location issue that turns off other buyers.

Q: Is it okay to buy a home that needs work?

A: Yes—as long as you know what you’re getting into. Be realistic about renovation costs and make sure big-ticket systems like roof, plumbing, and electrical are solid.

Q: Can strong air fresheners really be a red flag?

A: Definitely. Sellers may be masking pet odors, smoke, or mildew. Always ask about underlying smells if something seems off.

Q: What are signs of bad DIY work in a home?

A: Mismatched materials, sloppy paint, exposed wiring, or oddly placed outlets are all clues. DIY work isn’t always bad—but it should be safe and up to code.

Q: How do I check the age of a home's systems like HVAC or water heater?

A: The serial number on most units includes the manufacture date. A good inspector or real estate agent can help you decode it.