LIFESTYLE

Three sneaky tricks house sellers use to disguise issues — and what to look out for

Being vigilant can save you a fortune.

By Metro UK

• April 05, 2026 at 9:30 AM

Three sneaky tricks house sellers use to disguise issues — and what to look out for Photo: Metro UK

And when you’ve already drained your savings for a deposit, solicitor’s fees, moving costs and furniture, that’s an extra spend you can really do without.

According to Andrew Boast, property expert and founder of SAM, sellers are becoming increasingly savvy at disguising problems, making vigilance more important than ever.

‘The biggest issues aren’t always obvious,’ he tells Metro.

‘With a few tricks,sellers can legally mask problems that could end up costing buyers a fortune.’
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Painting over damp and mould

Andrew says: ‘If a room smells overly neutral or has that fresh ‘just painted’ scent, ask why.

Look at corners, skirting boards, and behind radiators too.

These are the places damp tends to creep in.’
If you suspect there’s something lurking beneath that fresh coat of emulsion, consider using a moisture meter or getting a damp and timber survey done to investigate further.

Using furniture to hide damage

Andrew notes that large furniture items can be used to conceal everything from cracked walls to evidence of past repairs, while floor coverings may disguise more sinister defects such as uneven flooring, warping, or subsidence.

‘If the layout feels oddly placed or something looks like it doesn’t quite fit the room, don’t be afraid to ask for it to be moved,’ he adds.

‘You’re buying the floor and walls, not just the way the room is styled.’

Timing viewings to avoid telltale signs

‘A viewing on a sunny weekday lunchtime might look perfect,’ says Andrew.

‘But it won’t tell you how noisy the road is at rush hour, or whether the garden floods after heavy rain.’
Refusing a second viewing or only allowing them to take place at certain times should raise red flags, along with vague or evasive answers.

But even if things seem perfect, Andrew warns never to ‘rely on surface appearances or a seller’s word.’
Getting the advice of qualified professionals – like solicitors and surveyors – is also a must, ‘giving you the chance to renegotiate or walk away before it’s too late.’
This article was first published on August 3, 2025.
Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.