And if thinking twice doesn’t do it, think a few more times—because you may be buying a house you’ll be stuck with for a LONG time.
I’m Mary Schumann, a realtor in the Minneapolis area. I help a LOT of buyers find the right home here. I’ve seen horror stories, analyzed inspection reports, and run the data on enough houses to confidently tell you to stay away from the following types of homes. Some of these tips may seem like common sense, but circumstances can sometimes push buyers to overlook red flags. Don’t be that buyer!
1. Homes With Obvious Flaws or Hazards
If a home has an obvious flaw that can’t be fixed—STOP and reconsider. Examples include:
- Located on a busy street
- Backing up to a railway
- Next to a run-down mobile home park
The number one rule in real estate is location, location, location. If you buy in a noisy or undesirable area, you’ll limit your resale options significantly. Busy streets, railways, and unattractive neighbors often scare off buyers with kids or pets.
Pro Tip: It’s often better to buy the worst home in the best neighborhood than the best home in a questionable location.
2. Homes Without Basements
In Minnesota, basements are essential. We get tornadoes here, and having a safe place to go during severe weather is key. Basements also provide:
- Extra storage
- Space for a family room or workout area
Most buyers expect a basement, so skipping one could hurt your property value.
3. Homes With Water Problems
Watch out for homes at the bottom of a slope or in flood zones. These can lead to:
- Damp basements
- Water damage and mold
Look for signs of water staining or dampness, and make sure the home has a sump pump—a good sign the seller has mitigated any water issues.
Flood Zones Tip: Minnesota does well with water management, but always check flood maps if you’re near rivers or creeks.
4. Homes With Steep or Long Driveways
Minnesota winters mean snow and ice—and neither is fun on a steep or long driveway. Problems include:
- Cars getting stuck or scraping low-clearance vehicles
- Slipping on ice when walking up or down
Sunlight Tip: Driveways facing south or west get more sun, which helps melt ice and snow faster.
5. Poor-Quality New Construction Homes
Don’t get distracted by fancy finishes like granite countertops. Instead, focus on:
- Durability of floors and carpet padding
- High-quality mechanicals (furnace, AC, etc.)
- Reputable builders with strong reviews
Minnesota has a 1-2-10 warranty on new construction:
- 1 year: Full coverage
- 2 years: Mechanical systems
- 10 years: Structural defects
Get a home inspection in the 11th month of your warranty to catch issues early.
6. Older Homes With Bad Roofs
Insurance companies may refuse coverage if a roof is in poor condition. Always check roof age and quality before buying an older home.
7. Homes at Dangerous Intersections or Curves
Avoid homes on T-intersections or tight curves. These locations often:
- Attract traffic accidents
- Shine headlights into your windows at night
8. Homes With HOA Restrictions
While Minnesota’s HOA rules are often less strict than other states, review them carefully. Minnesota law gives buyers a 10-day review period for HOA documents, including:
- Rules and regulations
- Budgets and expenditures
You can cancel your offer and get your earnest money refunded during this period if you don’t like what you see.
Final Advice: Don’t Skip Inspections
Yes, inspections are expensive, but they can save you from making costly mistakes. A high-quality inspector can uncover issues you may not be able to negotiate or fix later.
Work With a Realtor Who Tells It Like It Is
Thinking about buying a home? Find an agent who gives you honest guidance. My role is to arm you with the information you need to make smart decisions.
If you have questions, reach out! I love hearing from people who find me on online or on YouTube.