Open homes in Wollongong can feel like speed dating—quick chats, surface-level charm, and everyone's on their best behaviour. But much like love at first sight, property lust can close your eyes to the warning signs that could cost you big later. That sleek bathroom? It might be hiding a plumbing disaster. That "cosy" bedroom? It could be barely big enough for a bed and a sideways shuffle.

Buying property is a significant investment, and while Wollongong's coastal charm and city-meets-beach lifestyle are hard to resist, don't let the sea breeze cloud your judgment. Whether you're a first-home buyer in Mangerton or an investor eyeing Corrimal, knowing what to look for at an open home can save you money and heartache. Overlooking these red flags could lead to costly repairs or decreased property value, making it crucial to be vigilant during open homes.

So, before you fall in love with a place based on a nice-smelling candle and some trendy staging furniture, here are five red flags to watch out for. Consider this your real estate red flag survival guide, Wollongong edition.

Red Flag #1 – Overpowering Scents and Mood Lighting

What Are They Hiding?

Let's be real: nobody naturally lives in a home that smells like freshly baked cookies 24/7. If you walk into an open house and get hit with an intense wave of fragrance—be it candles, diffusers, or plug-ins—you need to ask yourself: what's the scent hiding?

Strong smells often mask unpleasant odours, such as pet odours, dampness, mould, or even poor ventilation. A lavender-scented living room might seem lovely, but it could be covering up a musty issue behind the walls. Similarly, a strong citrus scent could hide a pet odour, and a strong floral scent could mask dampness.

Tricks of the Real Estate Trade

Mood lighting is another classic distraction technique. Low lighting can hide all sins: scuffed walls, hairline cracks, dodgy patch jobs, or stained ceilings. If all the lights are dimmed or certain blinds are closed "for ambience," take a second look. Literally—open those blinds, switch on those overheads, and let the sun (and truth) shine in.

Many open homes are styled to seduce. That's their job. But your job is to look beyond the rose-tinted glow because it's easy to fall in love with a space when it smells like vanilla and glows like a spa retreat.

How to See (and Smell) Through the Fog

Bring your senses into the mix. If you can't tell what the house smells like, step into lesser-used areas—like the laundry, under the stairs, or walk-in robes. Take a deep breath and sniff for signs of dampness or mould.

Also, take a flashlight to view corners, behind curtains, and under rugs. These hidden spaces reveal more about a home's actual condition than the staged living room ever will.

Red Flag #2 – Fresh Paint in Isolated Areas

Cover-Up or Genuine Refresh?

There's nothing wrong with a freshly painted home—unless that paint seems suspiciously patchy or confined to particular walls or ceilings. A newly painted patch can be a red flag that something's being hidden: a past leak, crack, or mould issue.

If the whole house has a consistent paint job, that's great. But if you spot one bright white wall while everything else looks tired, ask yourself: What was there before?

Signs of Patch Jobs or Past Damage

Keep an eye out for:

• Uneven paint textures

• Mismatched colours (even subtle ones)

• Glossy patches in matte-painted areas

• Stains or water marks that seem "almost" covered

These could indicate previous damage—like a leaky roof or wall crack—that has been hastily patched instead of properly fixed.

Inspect corners of ceilings, behind doors, and around light fittings. Water stains and bubbling paint in these areas often signal issues that need professional attention.

What Questions to Ask the Agent

Don't be afraid to be direct. Ask:

• Has the home experienced water damage?

• Why was only one room (or wall) recently painted?

• Is there a history of leaks or mould?

Legally, agents are required to disclose known material defects—but they're not required to volunteer the info unless you ask. So ask. Then, ask again if the answer sounds vague.

Red Flag #3 – Unusual Floor Plans and Awkward Layouts

When Renos Go Wrong

That "unique" floor plan might be more of a Frankenstein job than a creative masterpiece. Renovations without permits or proper planning can leave you with odd layouts, like bathrooms off kitchens or bedrooms without windows.

Open homes are where poor layouts try to pass as "quirky." But function matters—especially when it comes to resale value or livability.

Functionality vs. Square Metres

More space isn't always better. Ask yourself:

• Does the flow make sense?

• Can furniture fit in a way that makes the room usable?

• Is the third "bedroom" really a glorified hallway?

A four-bedroom listing might sound impressive, but if one of those rooms is a cupboard-sized nook you couldn't swing a cat in, it's not a bedroom worth paying for.

Kitchens without adequate bench space, oddly placed power outlets, or hallways that feel like tunnels can quickly turn day-to-day living into a logistical nightmare.

Future Resale and Livability Concerns

Remember, one day you might want to sell. If a floor plan doesn’t make sense now, it won’t make sense later either. That quirky kitchen behind the garage might be a talking point, but it's also a resale anchor. A poorly planned layout can significantly reduce a property's resale value, making it important to consider this when evaluating potential homes.

Don’t get caught paying a premium for poor planning. Bring a tape measure, check the floor plan, and imagine living in the space—not just Instagramming it.

Red Flag #4 – Visible Cracks, Stains, or Moisture

Cosmetic or Structural?

Some cracks are cosmetic, while others are the real estate equivalent of a flashing red warning light. Knowing which is which can save you tens of thousands of dollars.

Hairline cracks above doors or along cornices may be nothing—but long, jagged cracks in walls, ceilings, or floors could indicate serious structural issues. If you can slide a 20-cent coin into it, get it checked immediately.

Moisture Signs Around Windows, Ceilings, and Bathrooms

Moisture stains, bubbling paint, mildew, or soft patches on walls are all signs of water damage. Bathrooms, laundries, and kitchens are prime suspects—but don’t overlook windowsills, corners of ceilings, or walls that back onto bathrooms.

Be concerned if the floor feels spongy or uneven underfoot, especially near wet areas. Hidden moisture can lead to mould, rot, and expensive repairs.

When to Bring in a Building Inspector

Always. A pre-purchase building inspection is non-negotiable if you're serious about a property—even one that looks perfect. These experts know what to look for and won’t be distracted by stylish décor or scented candles.

Think of them as your property lie detector. The small fee upfront can save you from a six-figure headache later.

Red Flag #5 – Agents Dodging Direct Questions

Vague Responses and Avoidance Tactics

You: “Has this home ever had water damage?"

 Agent: "Oh, not that I'm aware of…” (Translation: Possibly.)

You: “When was the last major renovation done?”

 Agent: “Well, the owners made some improvements over time…” (Translation: No permits, no receipts, and maybe some dodgy DIY.)

If an agent talks in circles or deflects your questions, it's a red flag waving itself.

Transparency and What’s Legally Required

In NSW, agents are legally obligated to disclose material facts like flood zones, bushfire risks, severe structural defects, or if the home has been used for illicit drug production. But that doesn’t mean they’ll shout it from the rooftop.

If they dodge a question, rephrase it and ask again. And if you're still not satisfied—dig into public records or hire an independent inspector or solicitor to run checks.

How to Get the Full Picture

Ask for the building inspection report, pest report, and any recent work or repair documentation. Check council records for approved renovations. Talk to neighbours if you can. People love to spill tea, especially when it comes to problem properties.

And above all, trust your instincts. If something feels off, it probably is.

Bonus Red Flag Round-Up

Sometimes, the real red flags are the ones no one talks about—until you're knee-deep in problems and three months into a regrettable mortgage. Here’s a quick-fire list of bonus warning signs that might not scream "run" but should at least whisper “maybe slow down.”

Dodgy DIY Jobs

If the bathroom tiling looks like it was done by a blindfolded apprentice or the kitchen shelves wobble when you breathe near them, take a step back. DIY renovations without proper oversight can lead to big problems—structural issues, safety hazards, or, at the very least, a huge bill to redo everything correctly.

Common culprits include:

• Crooked kitchen cabinets

• Mismatched flooring transitions

• Grout that looks like toothpaste

• Fixtures that aren’t actually… fixed

A fresh reno is excellent—but only if it’s been done legally and properly. Ask for warranties, receipts, and any council approvals related to the work.

No Recent Building Inspection Report Available

If the seller can’t provide a current building or pest inspection report, raise an eyebrow. A recent, professional inspection report is fundamental to any transparent sale. If it’s missing or the agent dances around it, assume they’re trying to keep you in the dark.

Some sellers avoid inspections because they know what they’ll find. Don’t let their avoidance become your disaster.

Unusually Low Prices in High-Value Areas

We all love a bargain but don't get too excited if a property in Thirroul or Woonona is going for significantly less than others on the same street. Ask yourself why.

Could be:

• Structural issues

• Legal disputes

• Flood or fire risk

• Neighbourhood noise (think freight trains or barking dogs)

• Ongoing development that might change the vibe of the area

A deal too good to be true usually comes with fine print—often hidden costs.

Conclusion

Wollongong’s property market is as hot as a summer day at North Beach—but that doesn’t mean every listing is a winner. Open homes can be fun and exciting, but they're also full of traps for the unwary.

From mood lighting trickery to patchy paint and evasive agents, it’s crucial to open your eyes. Don’t just fall in love with the layout—lift rugs, sniff the air, ask tough questions, and always get a professional opinion before signing on the dotted line.

Buying a home isn’t just about finding something pretty—it's about protecting your future. And in Wollongong’s competitive market, a little scepticism goes a long way.

So bring your checklist, trust your instincts, and remember: you’re not just shopping for a home—you're investigating a potential investment in your life.

FAQs

1. Should I worry about a newly renovated kitchen?

 Not necessarily. But ask for receipts, warranties, and council approvals—especially if plumbing or structural work was done.

2. How can I spot hidden water damage?

 Check for bubbling paint, discoloured spots, or a musty smell in corners and wet areas. Don't be afraid to peek under rugs or behind furniture.

3. Are cracks in the wall always a deal breaker?

 Hairline cracks? Probably not. Large, jagged, or growing cracks? Call a structural engineer before you go any further.

4. What should I do if the agent won't answer my questions?

 Could you ask again, differently? If they still won't respond clearly, walk away—or bring in your building inspector and legal support.

5. Is it rude to bring a building inspector to an open home?

 Not at all. It's smart. Most serious buyers do it before placing an offer. It's better to feel awkward now than broke later.