5 Red Flags to Watch for When Touring a Home in Seattle or the Eastside (2025 Buyer Tips)
If you’re house hunting in Seattle, Bellevue, Redmond, or Sammamish in 2025, you already know how fast things move. Many homes are going pending in as little as 6 to 9 days. With such a competitive pace, it’s easy to fall for a beautiful kitchen or great lighting, and overlook issues that could cost you thousands later.
Even if you’re not an inspector, there are clear red flags you can watch for on a tour. Here’s what to keep an eye out for if you’re serious about buying smart — not just buying fast.
1. Musty Smell or Overpowering Air Freshener
In the Pacific Northwest, moisture is one of the biggest culprits behind home damage. If you walk into a house and notice a musty or damp smell, it could signal past or ongoing water intrusion or even mold.
Sometimes sellers will use strong air fresheners to mask that musty smell. If you notice one section of the home is heavily scented, take a closer look — especially in basements, closets, or near crawl spaces. These issues can be expensive to fix and may pose long-term health risks.
Quick tip: Open closet doors, check behind curtains, and don’t be afraid to take a deep breath.
2. Cracks Around Doors and Windows
You may not be inspecting the foundation yourself, but cracks in the drywall — especially around doors and windows — can indicate structural movement or settling.
Watch for:
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Diagonal cracks at corners of windows or doors
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Doors that don’t latch or close properly
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Sloping floors, especially near stairwells or exterior walls
In older Eastside homes (especially those built before the 1980s), settling can be more common due to aging foundation styles like post-and-pier.
Pro Tip: Bring a small ball or round object and gently set it down on hardwood or tile floors. If it rolls consistently in one direction, it may indicate uneven flooring or grading issues.
Not all cracks are deal breakers — hairline cracks are normal with seasonal changes. But anything wide enough to fit a coin into is worth flagging for your inspector. If you’re concerned, a structural engineer in Seattle can cost a few hundred dollars — far less than the $30K+ bill you could face for repairs later.
3. Isolated Paint Patches
Fresh paint isn’t always a good sign. If only one section of a ceiling or wall is freshly painted, it could be covering past water damage, plumbing leaks, or previous foundation repairs.
This is especially common in flipped homes, where cosmetic updates are often prioritized over long-term fixes. While not every flip cuts corners, it’s smart to ask questions:
Ask your agent:
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Was this home recently flipped or renovated?
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Have disclosure documents been provided?
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Is there a history of water damage or repairs?
Remember, Washington sellers are legally required to complete a disclosure form, but it only reflects what they know. That’s why your own observations matter.
4. Windows That Don’t Open or Show Condensation
Windows might not be the flashiest feature, but they can tell you a lot. If a window sticks or won’t open, it might indicate framing issues or settling. If you see foggy double-pane windows, that’s a sign of a failed seal — which reduces insulation and energy efficiency.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, windows account for 25–30% of residential heating and cooling energy use. In Seattle’s long rainy seasons, poor window insulation can mean higher energy bills and increased moisture-related damage.
5. Bad Neighborhood Vibe or Poor Street Appeal
You’re not just buying a home — you’re buying into the block and community around it. Even if the interior checks all your boxes, take time to assess what’s happening outside.
Do a street-level audit:
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Are neighboring homes and yards well-maintained?
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Are there signs of ongoing construction or neglect?
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Visit the home at different times of day — including evenings and weekends — to assess traffic, lighting, and noise.
Use Google Street View’s Time Machine to scroll through past images of the home and block. It’s a great way to see how the area has evolved (or declined) over time.
Why it matters:
Homes in well-maintained, walkable neighborhoods tend to appreciate 6–10% faster, according to Redfin and the Urban Land Institute. In contrast, inconsistent zoning, teardown projects, or commercial encroachment can affect resale value and daily livability.
Final Thoughts: Buy Smart, Not Just Fast
Buying a home in Seattle or the Eastside isn’t just about what you see at first glance. It’s about knowing what’s beneath the surface, both in the house and the neighborhood. These five red flags aren’t always deal breakers, but they are conversation starters. If you notice something off, don’t ignore it. Your future budget (and peace of mind) will thank you.
Ready to Buy Smart in Seattle?
If you’re touring homes and want to know what’s worth your time — or what to flag for deeper inspection — let’s talk. I offer strategy calls and buyer consults for clients who want to make confident, informed real estate decisions.
Schedule a free consultation here.
