Which type of defect can be easily seen with the untrained eye?

The type of defect that can be easily seen with the untrained eye is a patent defect. Patent defects are defects that are obvious and can be identified through a simple visual inspection. These could include things like visible cracks in walls, peeling paint, or water stains; conditions that are apparent to anyone looking at the property.

In contrast, hidden defects are not visible upon casual observation and may require specialized knowledge or tools to detect, such as plumbing issues concealed behind walls. Latent defects are also not obvious at first glance and may only become apparent after time or through specific circumstances, such as hidden structural deficiencies. The term "crucial defect" is less commonly used in real estate terminology and does not specifically refer to the visibility or discernibility of defects in properties. Understanding these distinctions highlights how crucial it is for buyers and real estate professionals to conduct thorough inspections to uncover potential issues.