Things to Know Before You Buy a Home: Part 6 – Red Flags on Tour (Spot Them Before You Fall in Love)

You’re in the exciting phase: touring homes in the Minneapolis Saint Paul metro area—Lakeville, Apple Valley, Eagan, Burnsville, Bloomington, and the south metro. But before you fall in love with a property, train yourself to spot red flags during showings. These are warning signs that could turn your dream home into an expensive headache—or even a deal-breaker. Red Flags Aren’t Always Obvious Many issues are subtle. Sellers often don’t notice them because they’ve lived with them for years. Buyers get emotionally attached and overlook problems, thinking “I can fix that later.” That mindset costs thousands (or tens of thousands) in repairs after closing. As a real estate agent in Lakeville MN with over 20 years helping buyers, my job is to act as your risk mitigator—pointing out potential issues early so you make informed decisions, not emotional ones. Common Red Flags to Watch For on Tour Here are the most frequent problems I spot during showings:

Water Damage or Stains — Look for discoloration on ceilings, walls, or around windows/baseboards (leaks, roof issues, poor grading).
Mold or Musty Smells — Especially in basements, bathrooms, or near HVAC vents—mold remediation can cost $5,000–$20,000+.
Cracked or Uneven Flooring — Settling foundation, water damage, or poor subfloor—major structural red flag.
Doors/Windows That Stick or Don’t Close Properly — Indicates foundation settling or framing issues.
Outdated Electrical — Old knob-and-tube wiring, overloaded panels, or ungrounded outlets—expensive and dangerous to update.
Plumbing Issues — Low water pressure, slow drains, rust stains, or visible leaks under sinks.
Roof Condition — Missing shingles, curling, or dark streaks—replacements often run $10,000–$20,000.
HVAC Age & Condition — Units over 15–20 years old may need replacement soon ($5,000–$12,000).
Poor Insulation/Ventilation — High energy bills or condensation on windows—leads to mold and higher utility costs.
Structural Cracks — Especially in foundation walls or brick/stone exteriors—can signal major settling.

The Power of an Experienced Agent & Inspector You don’t need to be an expert—but you need one on your side. A good real estate agent spots red flags during showings and helps you weigh them:

Is it minor (easy fix)?
Is it major (deal-breaker)?
Is it negotiable (seller repair credit)?

When you find a home you love, the home inspection confirms or uncovers issues. A thorough inspector can save you tens of thousands by identifying problems early. The Bottom Line Buying a home is emotional—but don’t let emotions blind you to red flags. Spot them early, get professional input, and protect yourself from costly surprises. The right home is worth the wait; the wrong one isn’t worth the regret. If you’re ready to buy a home in Lakeville, Apple Valley, Eagan, Burnsville, Bloomington, or the south metro, let’s talk. As a real estate agent in Lakeville MN with over 20 years of experience helping buyers avoid pitfalls and secure the right property, I’ll guide you through every step with honesty and expertise. Ready to buy smart and avoid red flags in 2026? Text or call me today, Tom Sommers with Coldwell Banker Realty, for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let’s find your perfect home—without the hidden headaches.