Eight Exterior Flaws That Scare Home Buyers, According to Real Estate Agents

This article was prepared from a home design publication's report featuring interviews with real estate agents Jillene Cahill, Kambrin Thorne, Ledeana Strand, and Sain Rhodes.

Peeling paint, a worn roof, and foundation cracks are among the exterior problems that make home buyers hesitate before they even step inside, according to real estate agents who spoke with a home design publication. The agents identified eight specific issues that sellers should address before listing to avoid lower offers or lost deals.

"Buyers aren't just judging what the house looks like today, they're imagining future costs, stress, and maintenance," said Ledeana Strand, a licensed Realtor and team lead at Homes by Strand, part of Paramount Real Estate Group in Port Orchard, Washington.

Paint, Roof, and Foundation Top the List

Jillene Cahill and Kambrin Thorne, a mother-daughter real estate team at Summit Sotheby's International Realty in Park City, Utah, said peeling or faded exterior paint is one of the biggest buyer turnoffs. A fresh paint job, when feasible, makes a home feel clean and move-in ready, they said.

Strand said a roof nearing the end of its life is a major red flag. "Buyers know roofs are expensive, and even cosmetic wear can raise concerns about leaks or future insurance issues," she said. If replacement isn't possible, she recommends having the roof inspected and providing documentation of maintenance to help with negotiations.

Foundation cracks and signs of settlement are another deal-breaker. Sain Rhodes, a real estate professional and customer success manager at Clever Offers, said foundation repairs can cost between $10,000 and $50,000. "I have seen deals fall apart because buyers notice these things first," Rhodes said. She advised hiring a structural engineer and licensed contractor and documenting all repairs.

Stonework, Siding, and Water Problems

Loose or missing stonework—especially on mountain homes—suggests poor maintenance and potential safety concerns, according to Cahill and Thorne. They said repairing and cleaning stonework is almost always worth the investment because it restores buyer confidence.

Damaged siding, even if structurally sound, can make a home look tired and raise questions about moisture or insulation, Strand said. She suggested power washing, spot repairs, or repainting as relatively simple fixes.

Visible drainage issues such as pooling water, moss growth, or grading problems around the foundation also scare buyers quickly, Strand said. Simple fixes like extending downspouts or improving grading can resolve the issue and show buyers it has been addressed.

Landscaping and Garage Doors

Neglected landscaping sends a message of overall neglect, Rhodes said. She recommended spending $1,000 to $3,000 to remove dead plants, trim overgrown shrubs, spread grass seed, and add fresh mulch—an investment she said can make the difference between a buyer choosing your home or moving on.

Dirty, dented, or outdated garage doors and broken or fogged windows also create a worn first impression, according to Cahill and Thorne. They said cleaning, repainting, or replacing a garage door is a relatively simple way to improve curb appeal.