Hidden Risks of Renovated Homes: A Realtor’s Insight

Hidden Risks of Renovated Homes: A Realtor’s Insight

Yesterday, I accompanied a client to a beautifully renovated standalone house in the East Bay. The home was absolutely stunning✨—the interior was spotless and well-designed, and the freshly painted exterior made a strong impression. Even the front porch featured new concrete, which immediately attracted my client’s interest, prompting them to consider making an offer on the spot.

A Cautionary Instinct

However, I suddenly became alert: while the new concrete on the porch looked appealing, there was a large tree nearby. Could there be hidden issues? 🌳 As an agent, I am quite familiar with the potential problems that large tree roots can cause, such as lifting pavement or even damaging the foundation of a home.

Investigating Further

I decided to review the home inspection report, only to discover that the inspector couldn’t access the crawl space due to modifications made to the foundation. When I inquired with the listing agent, their response was vague and unconvincing. That’s when I had a lightbulb moment—I decided to consult Google Street View!

The Shocking Discovery

📸 The results were astonishing: the street view images from just a few months ago revealed that the concrete on the porch had indeed been cracked and deformed due to invasive tree roots, showcasing a significant gap! I quickly took a screenshot and sent it to the listing agent, who then reluctantly acknowledged the existence of this issue.

Key Takeaways

✅ In conclusion, while renovated homes can be visually appealing, the risks shouldn’t be overlooked! Many properties may appear brand new on the surface but could conceal structural problems. Google Street View is an invaluable tool that allows you to see what the property looked like a few months or even years ago, helping you avoid potential pitfalls!

Practical Tips for Home Buyers

💡 Next time you’re house hunting, consider using Google Street View to compare the current condition of the property with its past state—this could lead you to unexpected clues about its true condition!

📬 For more tips on house hunting in the Bay Area or for advice on real estate investment pitfalls, feel free to send me a message! #BayAreaSchools #BuyingInBayArea #BayAreaRealEstate