Touring homes is exciting, but it pays to keep a sharp eye out. Some warning signs are easy to miss if you're focused on paint colors and layout. Here are a few red flags worth watching for before you make an offer.

There Aren't Many Photos

If a listing only shows a handful of photos, or certain rooms are left out entirely, ask why. A lack of high quality images can be a sign the seller is trying to avoid showing something. Ask your realtor to pull older photos from previous listings before you tour the house.

You See Water Stains

Water and construction materials don't mix. A slow leak from a roof or window can rot structural wood over time. Yellowish or brownish stains may point to a plumbing issue on the floor above. Be sure to have a licensed home inspector look for the source of a leak before the end of the due diligence period. You can also bring in other specialists to inspect the roof more closely or look for signs of mold.

There Are Saggy Ceilings

No matter how quaint or cozy a house feels, a saggy ceiling is a red flag. Even a slight sag can point to a roof leak, structural movement pulling the drywall away from the ceiling joists, or an insect infestation eating away at the joists themselves. It's worth having a professional take a closer look before you move forward.

There Are DIY Additions

Homeowners often handle small repairs well, but building a code compliant addition takes real expertise. An addition built without permits or inspection could hide structural, wiring, or plumbing issues. Ask your agent to check for pulled permits before you get attached to the extra square footage. Building permits are also public records, so you're able to search for this information yourself.

Use of Strong Air Fresheners

If you walk in and immediately notice strong air freshener or diffusers running in every room, take note. It can be an attempt to mask a smell, like pet stained carpet or mold growing under a sink. If you're serious about the home, ask for a second showing without the air freshener. 

Standing Water in the Yard

A yard should slope away from the house at a minimum 2 percent grade. Drive by after a rain and look for puddles, especially near the foundation. Water that pools along a foundation wall can find its way into a basement through even the smallest crack.

Trust Your Instincts

None of these red flags automatically mean walk away, but they do mean slow down. A licensed professional inspector can catch issues that aren't visible during a normal tour, and their assessment is one of the most valuable tools you have before closing on a home. When in doubt, bring in the experts.