How to Spot a Well Maintained Home

Are you a savvy homebuyer on the hunt for your dream home? Well, we’ve got the inside scoop for you! We know it’s all too easy to get swept up in the enchanting whirlwind of beautiful interiors, shiny appliances, and trendy open-concept designs. But, let’s face it, that brand-new stainless steel fridge isn’t much help if the roof starts leaking during the first rainstorm.
Fear not, intrepid house hunters! We’re here to equip you with the knowledge you need to cut through the glitz and glamour and focus on what really matters: the underlying structural details and maintenance indicators of your potential new abode.

In this blog post, we’ll reveal four essential signs of a well-maintained home that every homebuyer should look for, along with tips for spotting these signs and potential red flags to watch out for. Get ready to channel your inner Sherlock Holmes and uncover the hidden secrets of your future home!

1. 1. Landscaping & Curb Appeal
      

      Look for well maintained landscaping

      A well-kept lawn, garden, and trimmed bushes and trees are signs that the homeowner has invested time and effort in maintaining the property. Proper landscaping helps prevent issues like overgrown vegetation damaging the home’s exterior, invasive plants spreading, or tree limbs posing hazards during storms. Additionally, well-maintained landscaping improves drainage around the property, reducing the risk of water damage to the foundation and making it easier to spot pest infestations.
      Tip: Don’t be distracted by fresh mulch in flowerbeds. Instead, take note of the number of beds you’ll have to maintain and what plants are in them.
      Red Flag: Watch out for trees planted too close to the house, as they can damage the exterior, roof, foundation, and water/sewer lines. Flowering trees near entryways can also attract pests.

   2. Cleanliness & Tidiness
      

      A clean home can tell a bigger story about a house.

      A clean and well-organized home reflects the homeowner’s dedication to regular upkeep and care for the property. Consistent cleaning helps prevent the buildup of dust, mold, and mildew, which can cause damage or health issues. Organized storage spaces make it easier to spot potential problems and reduce the likelihood of pest infestations.
      Tip: Look inside closets, underneath kitchen and bathroom sinks, and check for dust or cobwebs along baseboards and room corners.
      Red Flag: Be cautious if a home has strong scents, as the seller might be trying to mask unpleasant odors from water damage, pet accidents, mildew, or smoke.

   3. Fresh Paint
      

      Fresh paint is usually a good sign.

      Freshly painted walls, both interior and exterior, serve as a protective barrier against wear and tear, moisture, and UV damage. Well-maintained paint can help prevent issues like wood rot, mold growth, and peeling or chipping paint, which can lead to extensive repairs if left unaddressed.
      Tip: Start by examining the ceiling, then visually inspect the room from top to bottom. Look for splatter or missed spots where the walls and ceiling meet.
      Red Flag: If only one wall or area of a wall has been painted, take a closer look, as it may be covering up hidden issues. Ceilings and basements are common areas where partial painting can indicate more significant problems.

   4. Functional Windows & Doors
      

      Be sure that all the doors and windows properly function.

      Windows and doors in good condition are essential for energy efficiency, security, and overall comfort. Properly maintained windows and doors have intact seals and weatherstripping to prevent drafts and help maintain a consistent indoor temperature, reducing utility costs. They also ensure ease of use and contribute to a home’s overall security with reliable locking mechanisms.
      Tip: Open and close all doors and windows to check for ease of use and a good seal. Windows should stay open when you lift them.
      Red Flag: Crooked doors, windows that get stuck when partially opened, or uneven gaps around doors when closed could be signs of foundation issues. Be sure to examine the foundation if you notice these concerns.

   By keeping these four signs in mind, homebuyers can make more informed decisions and avoid potential pitfalls when searching for their dream home. Remember, it’s crucial to look beyond the surface and assess the overall maintenance of a property before making an offer. Happy house hunting!