Buy a Home With 'Good Bones'

House Hunting: Signs That a Property Is For You—Or You Should Just Walk Away

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House hunting is exciting when you are ready to buy. So much so that you could make the wrong choice and buy a money pit that just swallows all your extra money for repairs. Or you could be choosing the right property. How do you know when to walk away?

Buying a home is not just a transaction. It is a big decision with long-term consequences and you will spend the most money ever in your life. Whether you are a first-time buyer or upgrading your space, the right property will feel right, but there is more to it than gut instinct.

Here are some tips and pointers around what to look for and what should send you running straight out of the front door.

Green light: Solid structure, sound investment
A home with good bones is more than just straight walls. Check for level floors, stable ceilings and doors and windows that open and close smoothly. A well-built structure will stand the test of time as well as the elements.

Red flag: Structural concerns
Hairline cracks, sloping floors, bubbling paint or discolored patches could indicate deeper structural or moisture issues.

If you feel the house is masking bigger problems, trust your instinct and call in a professional.