15 Homes I Would Never Buy

I love touring model homes. They are beautiful, staged perfectly, and always inspiring. But after selling several former model homes for my clients, I can confidently say I would never buy one myself.

This article walks you through the types of homes I personally avoid, and why.

1 Model homes from builders

I would never buy a model home. In my experience, builders want those models finished fast so they can start selling phases, and quality control can get overlooked.

Model homes also tend to be filled with a mix of upgrades that are not always cohesive. Then when the builder sells the model at the end of the community buildout, they often ask a premium for a home that was designed to sell, not necessarily built to last.

2 First phase in a new development

I would never buy the first phase in a brand new development. Builders are still working out their process, the contractors are still figuring out the routines, and there are always issues in the beginning.

Even if the first phase is discounted, I would rather wait until the builder has had time to work through the kinks.

3 Homes with low water pressure

I would never buy a home with low water pressure coming from the street into the house. If the street pressure is weak, there is not much you can do, and living with that long term is a headache.

If I am looking at a home seriously, I like to check the water pressure using a gauge on the hose bib, because it is one of those issues that can make daily life miserable.

4 The most expensive home in the community

I would never buy the most expensive home in a neighborhood. That unicorn house might be gorgeous, but the surrounding lower priced homes will always affect resale value.

I would rather buy a strong mid range home in the community and let the surrounding higher end sales lift my value over time.

5 Unwarrantable attached condominiums

I would never buy an unwarrantable attached condo, especially in today’s market. If the HOA does not meet certain insurance standards, lenders may treat it as higher risk, which can limit financing and raise mortgage rates.

If you are downsizing or buying cash and thinking a condo is an easy option, I would still want you to confirm whether the community is warrantable before moving forward.

6 Mobile homes or modular homes

I would personally avoid mobile or modular homes if you have any other option. I know affordability is real, but in many markets these properties do not appreciate the same way, and they are not always positioned well as long term investments.

I have shown mobile homes that were priced shockingly high, and I still felt most buyers would be better served in a condo or small single family home if possible.

7 Homes in a bad location

I would never buy a home in a bad location. It does not matter how upgraded or beautiful it is inside.

If it is near a loud road, under power lines, next to a nuisance property, or affected by smells or noise, I would rather buy something less perfect in a stronger location.

8 Older homes that require major restoration

I do not personally buy older homes, because I do not want the constant repairs. Electrical updates, plumbing issues, lead paint, asbestos concerns, roof repairs, and ongoing maintenance can be one expensive project after another.

If restoration is your hobby, that is a different story. But if you want a simpler experience, older homes can come with a lot more than buyers realize at first.

9 Homes on leased land

I would never buy a home on leased land. I want to own the land, not rent it.

10 Zero lot line homes

I would never buy a zero lot line home again. I have had a bad experience, and I am not interested in dealing with the neighbor wall issues, privacy problems, and maintenance complications.

If you can avoid a zero lot line situation, I would recommend it.

11 Homes in flood zones

I would never buy in a flood zone. With how unpredictable weather is now, it is not a risk I would want to take on.

12 Homes with structural issues

I would never buy a home with structural issues. If a house has foundation movement or serious structural concerns, it usually costs far more to correct than buyers expect, and it can follow the home later when you go to resell.

When I am touring a home, I always look up at ceilings for stains or cracks because they can reveal issues buyers miss when they are focused on finishes.

13 Flip homes, especially poorly done flips

I would never buy a flip, especially from a flipper who cut corners. Flips can look incredible in photos, but cosmetic upgrades do not guarantee the quality behind the walls.

If someone insists on buying a flip, I would want them to do every inspection possible and request documentation on what was updated.

14 Homes with major unpermitted work

I would never buy a home with major unpermitted work, especially if the value is tied to that work. Unpermitted additions or ADUs can create safety concerns and serious problems with the city down the line.

I always recommend checking permits early so you do not discover surprises after you are already deep into the process.

15 Overly unique homes or homes with too many levels

I would avoid homes that are too customized or too themed, because resale becomes harder when a home is built around one person’s taste.

I would also avoid homes with excessive levels and stairs. They can feel impractical and can limit the pool of future buyers.