The Fixer Upper Red Flag Chip Gaines Always Ignores (And The One To Avoid)

The old saying goes, "never judge a book by its cover." As it turns out, the same can be applied to houses as well. HGTV star Chip Gaines urges buyers not to worry if your first impression of a property doesn't live up to your expectations. Often, your introductory look at a potential home will be the street view. And if that includes poor presentation or a less-than-lovely lawn, it may initially turn you off to the property. But Gaines advises not to let the landscaping hinder your decision since easy solutions are typically all the outdoor space really needs to look its best. 

When it comes to visual appeal of the front lawn, cosmetic changes can be made pretty easily. There are plenty of low-maintenance ways to landscape a front yard for added curb appeal. DIY-friendly upgrades like fake grass, new plants, or a fresh coat of paint on the facade can be enough to completely reinvigorate the exterior. What's most important are the spaces you will be residing in every day such as the bedrooms, bathrooms, and the kitchen. Sometimes the space outside the house could use some extra love because the indoors have received the most attention. Being too critical of the outdoor appearance may keep you from purchasing a home that is ideal for your needs. Remember that there are spaces within the home that are harder to fix — and those are the possible problems that deserve your second thoughts. 

One half of the "Fixer Upper" super couple, Chip Gaines doesn't pay much mind to how a house's front yard looks. He knows that what's inside the home is most important. Not only do the best elements of a property lie within the interior, but that's also where the homeowner should be paying the most attention to make sure the foundation and structure are strong. Instead of looking at the home's exterior, Gaines emphasized what buyers should be focused on: the roof. 

A poor roof structure is an appropriate red flag to look out for and should never be overlooked. This is the time to trust your gut if things don't feel right, as it is risky to buy a house with roof damage. Gaines warns that an unsightly or leaky roof could be masking a deeper structural problem like mold, or in some cases could cause an electrical fire. An unstable roof could even collapse, which would cause injury and make the house unsuitable to live in. You'll want to make sure the foundation inside the house is in good condition and will not require an expensive fix down the road. Ask questions about the roof, including when it was installed and if extreme weather has weakened its strength. And be sure to continuously follow best tips for extending the life of your roof no matter what stage of home ownership you're in.