The five findings buyers panic about, and what they actually cost

A cracked foundation reads worse than a failing water heater, but only one of them is a five-figure problem. Buyers usually react to how a finding sounds rather than what it costs to correct, and that is where good deals fall apart.

1. Foundation cracks

Most hairline cracks are shrinkage and cost nothing. The ones worth pricing are wider than a pencil, offset, or paired with sticking doors upstairs.

Ask what it costs before you ask whether it is serious. The number usually settles the argument.

2. Aging water heater

A unit past twelve years is a replacement you can plan for, not an emergency, unless the pan and drain line are missing.

• Check the manufacture date on the data plate, not the install date.
• Look for rust at the fittings and a dry pan underneath.
• Confirm the drain line actually terminates outside.