Poor drainage.
In the Illawarra, slope, rainfall and older housing stock can make drainage a serious issue.
Fresh paint and styling can hide a lot, but water problems tend to show up later - and usually at the worst possible time.
Before getting emotionally attached to a property, check:
- fall of the block
- retaining walls
- downpipes and stormwater
- signs of moisture under the house
- whether neighbouring land drains toward the property
A building and pest report matters, but so does walking the site properly.
What is the biggest property red flag you've seen locally?