Common Problems Home Sellers Try to Hide

Most sellers will be upfront about the issues present in the house. Other sellers, however, will try to hide some issues in the hopes of selling their house fast.

If you are planning to buy a house, beware. The house may have some issues the seller don’t want you find out.

Here are some of the most common problems home sellers try to hide.

Leaks

Leaks are one of the most common problems in the house. It can be from plumbing fixtures, pipes or roof leak. Sellers will try every quick fix possible to temporarily plug that drip.

A leak may seem like a minor problem, but if not addressed immediately, this can lead to bigger, more complicated problems. Water damage, mold growth, and structural problems are just some of them. These issues are not only costly to address, they can also pose a threat to your family’s health and safety.

Water damage

Signs of water damage can be hard to miss. It often manifests as a stain or blotch on the walls and ceiling. Peeling paint is also a common sign of water damage.

Most sellers would paint the walls before putting their home on the market. Not only will it help freshen up the look of the house, it also helps conceal the stains on the walls and ceiling.

HVAC systems

HVAC systems usually last for a very long time. In fact, the average lifespan of an HVAC equipment is between 15 to 20 years. But once it reaches the 10-year mark, it tends to break down and becomes costly to operate. Replacing older units with newer, energy-efficient models will help you save money and stress down the road.

It is easy to tell whether the HVAC unit is ancient or not, but some sellers try to hide the age of their HVAC system with 3 words – I don’t know. When in doubt, ask your home inspector about it. They can find out that information very quickly.

A haunted past

According to the National Association of Realtors, violent crimes, murder or suicide that took place in the house doesn’t have to be disclosed during the selling process. Don’t expect the seller to offer that information to you during the home selling process.

If you’re squeamish about it, sites like DiedinHouse.com can clue you in on a property’s unsavory past.