Buying a home is one of the biggest investments you'll ever make, so it's crucial to spot warning signs before falling in love with a property. Sometimes, a listing can look perfect on paper but hide major issues between the lines. Here's a list of red flags to look for in a real estate listing so you can save time, money, and headaches.

1. Phrases That Sound Too Vague

Watch out for terms like:

• “Cozy” (might mean cramped)

• “Needs TLC” (could mean costly repairs)

• “As-is” (seller won’t fix anything)

• “Great potential” (usually a fixer-upper)

These phrases can be legitimate, but they’re also commonly used to downplay problems.

2. Limited or Low-Quality Photos

If a listing has very few photos, or if rooms are oddly cropped or poorly lit, it may be hiding flaws. A well-maintained home should be shown off proudly with clear, high-resolution images.

3. No Photos of Key Areas

Are there no photos of the kitchen, bathrooms, or exterior? That’s a huge red flag. Sellers often skip photographing problem areas.

4. Long Time on Market

A listing that’s been sitting for a while may indicate issues with the property, pricing, or location. It doesn’t always mean something’s wrong, but it’s worth digging deeper.

5. Frequent Price Reductions

Multiple price drops may suggest the seller is struggling to attract buyers, often due to hidden issues or overpricing from the start.

6. Inconsistent Property Details

Does the square footage on the listing match the public records? Are there discrepancies in the number of bedrooms or bathrooms? Double-check everything with your agent.

7. Overuse of Staging and Filters

While staging is common, an over-staged or overly edited photo set might be masking flaws like cracks, poor lighting, or outdated fixtures.

8. Unusual Lot Descriptions

Be cautious if the listing says things like “shared driveway,” “easement,” or “flag lot.” These can impact privacy, access, and future value.

9. Mention of Pending Litigation or HOA Issues

If a listing hints at HOA disputes, upcoming assessments, or lawsuits, proceed with caution. These can lead to unexpected costs and legal complications.

10. No Mention of Recent Updates

If a home hasn’t had any updates or renovations in the past decade, expect to invest in maintenance, energy upgrades, or even major systems.

Don’t let a beautiful listing blind you to what could be hiding behind the walls. Knowing what to look for—and what to question—can help you make smarter, more confident buying decisions. Work with an experienced real estate agent who can help you uncover the truth and avoid costly surprises.

Matt Witte strives to be the best realtor in North Andover MA.

Any questions about real estate, reach out to Matt Witte North Andover Realtor MA