Buying a home that’s listed as “fully renovated” is tempting – you know everything’s going to be new and that the home is move-in ready.
But how would you know if the person you were buying from actually cut corners during the renovation? If something went wrong while the seller was fixing up the home, it could come back on you later – so check out these three signs that the seller cut corners (and that the home could end up costing you more down the road).
3 Signs a Seller Cut Corners While Remodeling
When you’re touring a home that’s been recently remodeled, there’s a good chance it was remodeled for the sale – and sometimes, sellers will cut corners to maximize their profits. This can be particularly true if you buy a home from a “flipper” – someone who often buys foreclosures or homes where the previous owner couldn’t keep up with the payments – because flippers are in the business of fixing and selling houses quickly.
Here are three signs to watch for:
- Little details don’t match up
- Permits weren’t in place
- Major systems haven’t been updated
Here’s a closer look at each.
#1. Little Details Don’t Match Up
You’ll want to visit the home more than once to get a good look at everything. Each time you visit, you’ll notice more detail – and you need to be on the lookout for “little things,” like tiles that are installed improperly or doors that open the wrong way. Look at the way cabinets fit into the space, check for gaps in the flooring, and scrutinize the paint job on the interior and exterior walls.
#2. Permits Weren’t in Place
Check public records to figure out whether the seller had the right permits in place to renovate or build. Your real estate agent can help you with this.
#3. Major Systems Haven’t Been Updated
Remember that major systems are expensive (like HVAC and electrical), so when someone’s updating or renovating a house just to sell it, these things get overlooked – they cut into profits.
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