Three Sneaky Tricks House Sellers Use to Disguise Issues — and What to Look Out For
With so much money on the line, choosing the right home is a decision you cannot afford to get wrong. According to a survey by SAM Conveyancing, one in six buyers have discovered defects after moving into a property, spending an average of £5,000 on repairs as a result. When you have already drained your savings for a deposit, solicitor's fees, moving costs, and furniture, that is an extra expense you truly need to avoid.
Andrew Boast, a property expert and founder of SAM, warns that sellers are becoming increasingly savvy at disguising problems, making vigilance more critical than ever. 'The biggest issues are not always obvious,' he explains. 'With a few tricks, sellers can legally mask problems that could end up costing buyers a fortune.' It is always advised to get a survey done before signing on the dotted line, but you can save yourself time, money, and headaches by looking out for these commonly used tactics early in the process.
Painting Over Damp and Mould
While many sellers repaint to present their home as a versatile blank canvas, some use it to cover issues that could deter buyers entirely, such as leaks, poor ventilation, or mould. Andrew advises: 'If a room smells overly neutral or has that fresh 'just painted' scent, ask why. Look at corners, skirting boards, and behind radiators too. These are the places damp tends to creep in.' If you suspect something is lurking beneath that fresh coat of emulsion, consider using a moisture meter or getting a damp and timber survey done to investigate further.
Using Furniture to Hide Damage
A strategically placed rug can hide a multitude of sins around a home, which is useful for covering spills but vital to remember during property viewings. Andrew notes that large furniture items can conceal everything from cracked walls to evidence of past repairs, while floor coverings may disguise more sinister defects like uneven flooring, warping, or subsidence. 'If the layout feels oddly placed or something looks like it does not quite fit the room, do not be afraid to ask for it to be moved,' he adds. 'You are buying the floor and walls, not just the way the room is styled.'
Timing Viewings to Avoid Telltale Signs
'A viewing on a sunny weekday lunchtime might look perfect,' says Andrew. 'But it will not tell you how noisy the road is at rush hour, or whether the garden floods after heavy rain.' At least two viewings at different times of the day and week are necessary to get a feel for a home's environment. Even better, try to ask neighbours about local noise or flooding history. Refusing a second viewing or only allowing them at certain times should raise red flags, along with vague or evasive answers.
But even if things seem perfect, Andrew warns never to 'rely on surface appearances or a seller's word.' Getting the advice of qualified professionals, such as solicitors and surveyors, is also a must, 'giving you the chance to renegotiate or walk away before it is too late.' This article was first published on August 3, 2025.
