Looks Can Be Deceiving: 4 Open House Red Flags You Shouldn’t Ignore

Open House Red Flags (That No One Warns You About)

Sure, that fresh-baked cookie smell is charming. But what’s behind the staged throw pillows and curated playlists? Open houses are like first dates—fun, but not always the whole story. Here’s what to really look for.

1. The Febreze Fog

If you walk into an open house and immediately feel like you’ve stepped into a commercial for air fresheners, take note. A home should smell clean, not like it’s hiding something. Overly strong scents—whether it’s cookies, candles, or enough lavender to trigger a nap—can be a red flag that something less-than-pleasant is lurking underneath (like pet accidents, mold, or last week’s fish dinner still haunting the walls).

You’d be amazed what a few well-placed lamps can do. Dim corners? Flickering bulbs? Heavy drapes that never open? Sometimes, it’s not about setting the mood—it’s about hiding flaws. Don’t be afraid to pull back curtains, flip on light switches, and see the home in actual daylight. Harsh shadows and overly romantic lighting can be strategic distractions.

3. The “Missing Room” Tour

If the agent walks you through the entire house… except the basement or garage, raise an eyebrow. Those skipped spaces might be where the secrets are buried—sometimes literally (hello, foundation issues, water damage, or suspicious DIY wiring). A full tour means every room, even the scary ones.

Ambient music playing at just the right volume. Fresh flowers that look like they were flown in this morning. Furniture perfectly angled for maximum Instagram appeal. When a home feels more like a showroom than a place someone actually lives, it’s fair to ask what reality they’re trying to mask. A little staging is great—total sterility? Not so much.

An open house should be exciting—this could be your future home, after all. But don’t let the ambiance blind you to the details. Trust your instincts, ask the awkward questions, and look twice at anything that seems too perfect.

Need someone with a trained eye (and an excellent poker face) to come with you? That’s what we're here for.