We’ve all seen it—the listing that makes you stop and think, “Wait, that price can’t be right.” Maybe it’s a gorgeous house that seems underpriced, or maybe it’s a fixer-upper that looks like a steal.
But here’s the thing: not every “good deal” is truly good once you dig deeper. A home’s sticker price only tells part of the story. Sometimes that bargain comes with hidden costs, or the “too good to be true” number hides issues that could cost you more in the long run.
So, how do you really know if a home is a solid deal or just a trap in disguise? Here are a few things I always encourage buyers to look at before making a move.
Comparable Sales (Comps)
The first place to start is by comparing the home to others that have recently sold in the same neighborhood. This is what real estate agents call “comps.”
Questions to ask yourself:
What have similar homes in the area sold for in the last 3–6 months?
Does this house line up with those numbers—or is it priced way higher (or lower)?
If it’s significantly cheaper, is there a reason? (Sometimes it’s a motivated seller, but sometimes it’s a sign of hidden issues.)
Comps help you understand if the asking price makes sense for the market, not just your gut feeling.
Condition of the Home
A “cheap” house isn’t always a good deal. For example, saving $20,000 on the purchase price won’t feel like much if you end up spending $30,000 in repairs during the first year.
Pay attention to things like:
Roof age
HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems
Foundation or structural issues
Outdated kitchens, bathrooms, or flooring
It’s not that fixer-uppers are bad—they can actually be great opportunities if you’re prepared for the work and cost. But you need to weigh the cost of repairs against the purchase price. Sometimes the home with a slightly higher price tag but fewer issues is the better deal in the long run.
Neighborhood & Future Growth
A home isn’t just about what’s inside—it’s also about where it’s located. A house in a thriving, growing neighborhood is almost always a stronger investment than one in an area that’s declining.
Think about:
Are there new developments, businesses, or schools being built nearby?
Is the neighborhood safe, and does it have good walkability or access to amenities?
What’s the commute like?
Even if the house itself is a little dated, being in a great location can mean strong long-term value. On the flip side, a shiny new home in a neighborhood with declining schools or limited growth potential may not hold value as well.
Your Personal Goals
This is the piece buyers often overlook: a good deal isn’t just about numbers—it’s about fit.
Ask yourself:
Does this home align with my lifestyle? (Commute, space, layout, etc.)
Will it still meet my needs in 5–10 years?
Does owning this home put me in a financially and emotionally comfortable place?
For example, a house that’s $30,000 cheaper but adds an extra 45 minutes to your daily commute might not feel like such a deal when you’re sitting in traffic every day. Or maybe the “perfectly priced” condo has high HOA fees that eat up your budget.
The best deal is the one that makes sense for your life today and for your future.
At the End of the Day
A good deal on a home isn’t just about finding the lowest price—it’s about value, condition, location, and how it fits into your goals.
Here’s the quick checklist:
Compare the price to recent sales.
Factor in the cost of repairs.
Look at the neighborhood’s future growth.
Consider your personal goals and lifestyle.
If all of those line up, chances are you’ve found yourself a solid deal.
Not Sure if That House You Love Is the Right Move?
You don’t have to figure it out alone. I’ll help you break down the numbers, spot potential red flags, and make sure you’re not just buying a house—you’re making a smart investment.
Let’s chat about your goals and figure out if it’s a win—or if you should keep looking.
