Buying a home in Iowa means more than just finding the right school district or floor plan, it means understanding the land, the weather, and how both impact your safety, costs, and long-term home maintenance. Here are ten things to avoid when house hunting in Iowa, especially if you want to protect your property and peace of mind:
1. Homes at the End of a Street
That picturesque cul-de-sac may come with a price. In icy Iowa winters, cars can lose control and slide directly into homes at the end of a street. We’ve seen living rooms, garages—and in tragic cases, lives—lost due to accidents like these. Plus, headlights from turning cars often shine directly into your windows all night long.
2. Homes on Busy Streets
Living along a major roadway brings a wave of problems: noise, limited privacy, blocked driveways, and foot traffic cutting through your yard. If the city ever modifies the sidewalk, you may be liable for the cost. Busy roads aren’t just inconvenient—they can chip away at your quality of life.
3. Homes with Old Roofs
Any roof older than 15 years is at higher risk of hail damage, leaks, and water intrusion. Insurance providers may deny coverage or reduce your claim if they find your roof wasn’t properly maintained or is past its lifespan. Always ask for documentation—and bring in a roofing expert if there’s any doubt.
Signs of an Old Roof
4. Properties in Flood Plains
Flood plains might offer lower property prices, but they come with a high cost in risk. Flash floods and ground saturation can destroy basements, foundations, and roofs. Always check FEMA flood maps before buying—and remember that standard homeowner insurance does not cover flood damage.
5. Homes on Hills
While scenic, hilltop properties have serious drawbacks. Steep, icy driveways can keep you stuck at home during winter. Plows are less likely to reach you early, and you’ll face high wind exposure, making your roof more vulnerable during tornado season. Even walking outside can be dangerous in freezing conditions.
6. Homes with Long Driveways
That long, tree-lined drive might look beautiful in spring—but come winter, it means hours of shoveling or snow-blowing. If you don’t own a snow plow, your peaceful retreat can quickly turn into a logistical nightmare.
7. Homes in Flat, Low-Lying Areas
Flat land may seem easy to maintain, but poor drainage and heavy rainfall can create a serious flood risk. Without proper grading and runoff systems, water can pool around the foundation or leak into basements—leading to mold, mildew, and structural damage.
8. Homes with Missing or Improper Gutters
In Iowa’s stormy seasons, gutters aren’t optional. Homes without gutters, or with improperly installed systems, are vulnerable to water intrusion, ice dams, and foundation damage. Before buying, make sure the gutter system is sized right and drains away from the house.
9. Uninspected Attics and Crawl Spaces
These overlooked areas are often hiding signs of major damage—roof leaks, animal infestations, poor insulation, or mold. Always request an inspection, and don’t assume “out of sight” means “out of risk.” These spaces can reveal how well the home has weathered Iowa’s seasons.
10. Tornado-Damaged Roof Patches
Some sellers will cover up storm damage with cheap repairs or partial shingle replacements. In Iowa, this is a red flag. Ask whether the home has had roof work due to wind or hail—and who did it. At J. Bos Roofing, we’ve seen too many cases where a patched roof leads to full replacement within a year of buying.
Final Tip:
Before you sign the paperwork, bring in professionals who know Iowa weather and housing risks. At J. Bos Inc. Roofing Services, we offer honest assessments of roof condition and can spot warning signs that inspectors may miss.
Protect your future investment. A good roof makes a good home.
Contact us here or check our Google reviews to see why Iowa homeowners trust us.
