Shopping for a home in Salt Lake City can be exciting, with neighborhood charm, mountain views, and that “this could be the one” feeling. But open houses aren’t just about imagining your furniture in the living room; they’re also about spotting warning signs before you make a significant investment.
Here are seven open house red flags to keep on your radar as you explore the SLC real estate market.
- Strong Smells—Good or Bad
If you walk in and are hit with an overwhelming scent, whether it’s air fresheners, candles, or even baked cookies, pause for a moment. Sellers sometimes use strong scents to mask odors from pets, mold, or smoke. On the flip side, a persistent musty smell could point to water damage or poor ventilation.
- Cracks in Walls or Ceilings
Every home settles a little over time, but large cracks or ones that run diagonally can hint at foundation issues. In Salt Lake City, with its mix of older bungalows and newer builds, foundation problems can be costly to repair. Don’t ignore what the walls are trying to tell you.

- Water Stains or Fresh Paint in Odd Places
Look up and down. Water stains on ceilings, bubbling paint near baseboards, or newly painted patches can suggest past or ongoing water damage. In our climate, snow melt and heavy spring rains can take a toll on roofs and basements.
- Sloping Floors or Sticky Doors
If a home feels a little off-balance, floors slanting, doors that don’t close properly, or windows that stick, it could be more than quirky charm. These signs often point to shifting foundations or structural problems.
- Signs of Neglected Maintenance
Peeling paint, overgrown landscaping, dripping faucets, or missing shingles are all small things that add up to one big message: the home hasn’t been well cared for. Deferred maintenance means you might be inheriting someone else’s to-do list.
- Inconsistent Additions or DIY Repairs
That bonus room or basement finish might look good at first glance, but if it seems out of step with the rest of the home, or was clearly a DIY project, ask about permits. Unpermitted work can lead to safety issues, insurance headaches, and costs down the line.

- Overly Busy Sellers or Agents
If the seller or listing agent seems rushed, vague, or avoids answering questions about the home’s history, take note. Transparency is key in a real estate deal, and hesitation may be a sign of problems they don’t want to disclose.
Buying a home is one of the most significant financial moves you’ll make, and a shiny open house can sometimes distract from hidden problems. Trust your instincts, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to bring a professional eye, whether that’s your agent or an inspector, into the process.
Salt Lake City Real Estate: Your Partner in 2025
If you’re considering buying or selling a home in or around Salt Lake City, we’re here to help! Whether selling a home to buy another, buying your first home, or relocating, we provide expert advice and service to help you navigate the local real estate market. Kevin Coyle of SLC Homes has the resources and expertise to assist you every step of the way. Contact us today to start your journey toward accomplishing your real estate goals.