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AVANNAH, Ga. – This Halloween season, the scariest surprises for homeowners are often silent, not spectral. Patrick Hanlon of Home Buyers of Savannah warns that water leaks, aging trees, and hidden contract clauses can drain wallets.
Water damage is a top nightmare. Hanlon recalls a contractor who, while replacing a leach field, broke a water line. The next day, a neighbor reported a flooded yard. “A tiny issue can explode into a costly disaster,” he says. He advises homeowners to monitor their water meter: if the house is off yet the meter runs, a leak is likely. Early detection can save thousands.
In coastal Georgia, trees add beauty but can become liabilities as they age. Hanlon cites a 1960s home with towering water oaks that lost limbs during storms in 2023. Water oaks live 50–60 years and weaken over time, whereas southern live oaks can last centuries. “Know your trees,” he says. “If you have aging water oaks, hire an arborist. One storm can turn shade into a six‑figure problem.”
Contracts can hide even worse surprises. Hanlon once helped a woman who thought she owned her home through a rent‑to‑own deal. A clause barred material changes before ownership, so after she finished exterior hardscaping, the seller invoked the clause, revoking the contract and initiating eviction. “It’s heartbreaking and legal,” he notes. He urges buyers to read every contract carefully and have an expert review it. Rent‑to‑own can work, but it carries traps for the unwary.
Preparation is key to avoiding real‑estate nightmares. “Check for leaks, assess your trees, and scrutinize the fine print,” Hanlon advises. Home Buyers of Savannah can help homeowners navigate these pitfalls at homebuyersofsavannah.com. © 2025 WTOC. All rights reserved.
