what are the usual red ?? to consider when evaluating a property for purchase?

Investing in real estate can be one of life's most significant decisions, so being well-informed about potential issues is key. It's not just about the paperwork; it's equally crucial to visit the property personally and conduct a comprehensive due diligence process.

Here are some common warning ?? signs you should look out for:

Neglected Maintenance: If you observe broken fixtures, fused bulbs, peeling paint, cracked ceramics, dirty carpeting, or an unkempt yard, these are clear signs of neglect. Such indications might suggest other hidden issues that could emerge after your purchase. This might also indicate that there could be many other issues which might not be that visible in the short visit to the property. 

Moisture or Water Damage: A musty smell, particularly in the basement area, could indicate water seepage issues along the foundation walls. Similarly, swollen drywall on ceilings could point to water damage from above which needs attention or wasn't treated when the water leak took place.

Signs of Mold: Mold can often be found near window frames due to temperature gradients and moisture. If you notice an odd odour, specially on the top floor, it could hint at mold growth in the attic.




DIY Work: A jumble of wires in the electrical panel, faucets not matching vanity holes, or poorly fitted closet doors are all signs of DIY projects that may not be up to professional standards. If the basement is done and the seams are showing where the drywall joins, corners where the ceilings meet the wall are skewed and not at a right angle, these are all signs of a poorly done drywall work.

Roof Condition: If you notice curled, torn, or missing shingles, this could suggest the roof has been neglected. This may lead to water penetration in the attic, causing damage and potential mold growth. This is most easy to reflect and discover, when you are approaching the property from the far, try to have a peek on the status of shingles.

Plumbing Issues: When you are reviewing a property, if the home is relatively old it doesn't take long to check the water pressure and flow in one of the vanities, if the water pressure is too low or the drains are working slow, it shows that upkeep to plumbing is needed.




Undesirable Location: Properties located near busy roads, industrial sites, or livestock farms might impact liveability, rentability, and future growth of the property. And it would be best to avoid.

While these tips can help you identify potential issues, it's always recommended to engage a qualified home inspector for a thorough evaluation. They can uncover latent issues that could impact your investment in the long term. To learn more about the importance of home inspections, please refer here to our previous discussion on this topic.

Wish you all the very best! Reach out to our dedicated team at Elixir for any queries you have in Real Estate and we will do our best to help.

Mudit Mehta 
Broker of Record
ELIXIR REAL ESTATE INC.
Off: 416-816-6001 | [email protected]