Top 5 Green Flags on a Home’s Exterior for Midwestern Homebuyers

When touring homes, spotting positive signs can be just as important as identifying red flags. Here are five exterior "green flags" that suggest the home has been well cared for and might be a smart investment:

1. Well-Maintained Roof
A clean, intact roof with no missing shingles, visible sagging, or signs of moss suggests the home has been properly maintained and may not need major repairs anytime soon.

2. Good Drainage and Grading
Landscaping that slopes away from the foundation and gutters that are clean and properly directed are signs the homeowner took steps to prevent water damage.

3. Fresh Paint or Well-Kept Siding
Whether it’s wood, vinyl, or brick, a clean and damage-free exterior shows the home has been cared for regularly and is less likely to hide hidden moisture issues.

4. Newer or Energy-Efficient Windows and Doors
Well-sealed, modern windows and doors not only reduce energy costs but also indicate the owner has invested in the home's performance and upkeep.

5. Healthy Landscaping (But Not Overgrown)
A neat lawn, trimmed trees, and healthy plants suggest regular maintenance. If irrigation systems are visible and functional, that’s an added bonus.

This is not an exhaustive list, but these five things are great signs for homeowners to look out for. Always be sure to ask a member of your homebuying team (your realtor, your mortgage lender, or your home inspector) if you have any questions about the condition of a property. Spotting these types of green flags on home tours can go a long way towards making homebuyers feel confident about putting in their offer - seeing that the home has been well taken care of!