5 Red Flags to Watch for When Touring Homes

A Homebuyer's Guide to Spotting Deal Breakers Before You Make an Offer

Touring homes in Saskatoon? Discover 5 major red flags to watch for before making an offer—featuring expert tips from Realtor Jack Bouvier with the Bouvier Real Estate Group at eXp Realty.

🏡 Introduction: Not Every Dream Home Is What It Seems

Walking through a potential new home can feel exciting—fresh paint, stylish décor, and cozy lighting can make any place feel like “the one.” But don't let the staging fool you. As a Realtor here in Saskatoon, I’ve seen countless buyers fall for polished listings that hid some serious problems.

The truth is, what you don’t see during the showing could cost you thousands—or worse, become a long-term headache. So before you fall in love, here are 5 red flags to watch for when touring homes.

🚩 1. Cracks in the Foundation or Walls

Why it matters:
Structural issues are among the most expensive problems to fix. Cracks in the foundation or large splits in walls may signal settling, shifting, or moisture problems—especially during seasonal freeze-thaw cycles common in Saskatchewan.

What to look for:

• Stair-step cracks in basement walls

• Gaps around windows or doors

• Uneven floors

💬 Expert Tip:
"Small hairline cracks are common, but anything wider than 1/4 inch should raise concern." – CMHC (Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation)

Action Step:
If you spot suspicious cracks, bring in a structural engineer or home inspector before proceeding.

🚩 2. Signs of Water Damage or Moisture

Why it matters:
Water damage can lead to mold, rot, or long-term structural issues. And in areas like Saskatoon where snowmelt and rain runoff can be unpredictable, proper drainage and waterproofing are essential.

What to look for:

• Stains on ceilings, baseboards, or walls

• Musty odours (especially in basements)

• Warped flooring or bubbling paint

💡 Real-Life Example:
A buyer I worked with almost purchased a beautiful 2-storey in City Park—until we noticed a faint musty smell in the basement. After testing, it turned out the weeping tile was clogged and moisture had been pooling for months.

Action Step:
Always check under sinks, in utility rooms, and around basement windows. Don’t skip the sniff test either—smell is often your first clue.

🚩 3. New Cosmetic Fixes That Seem... Too Convenient

Why it matters:
Fresh paint or new flooring can increase appeal—but it can also cover up deeper issues like stains, cracks, or water damage.

What to look for:

• One freshly painted wall in a room (especially the ceiling)

• New baseboards or patchy drywall

• Mismatched materials that don’t fit the rest of the house

💬 Quote:
“If it looks like a quick flip, assume it might be hiding a quick patch job.” – Mike Holmes, HGTV Contractor

Action Step:
Ask your agent to find out what work was done recently and whether proper permits were pulled.

🚩 4. Strange Smells or Overpowering Scents

Why it matters:
Strong air fresheners or diffusers can be more than just bad taste—they might be masking bigger issues like mildew, pet accidents, or smoke damage.

What to look for:

• Plug-ins in every room

• Burning candles during a showing

• Scented sprays used right before your arrival

Action Step:
Open closets, sniff around baseboards, and step outside for fresh air between rooms to reset your nose. A clean house doesn’t need to be covered in cologne.

🚩 5. Incomplete or Sketchy Disclosures

Why it matters:
Sellers in Saskatchewan are required to disclose known issues. But vague or incomplete Property Condition Disclosure Statements (PCDS) could be a red flag that something is being withheld.

What to look for:

• “Seller has never lived in the home” (common with flips or rentals)

• Missing answers or unchecked boxes on disclosure forms

• Refusal to provide utility costs, repair receipts, or inspection reports

Action Step:
Ask for a full disclosure, and if something seems off—trust your gut. A good buyer’s agent will dig deeper and protect your interests.

🔑 Conclusion: Don’t Just Fall for the Decor—Look Beneath the Surface

Buying a home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make. While it’s easy to get swept up in emotions, staying sharp during showings can protect your wallet—and your future peace of mind.

As your Realtor here in Saskatoon, I’ve helped dozens of buyers spot red flags before they turn into regret. If you're thinking about touring homes soon, I’d be happy to walk through them with you—and point out the things most people miss.

👀 Ready to Start House Hunting (With Confidence)?

Let’s schedule a time to chat. I’ll help you avoid the pitfalls, ask the right questions, and find a home that doesn’t just look great—but lives great too.

Jack Bouvier
Your Realtor for Life
Saskatoon | Bouvier Real Estate Group | eXp Realty
📱 306-xxx-xxxx
📧 jack@bouvierrealestate.com