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It’s time to have ‘the talk’ if your partner is holding on to 5 things dating expert warns against�

Relationship red flags can take different forms and shapes, even as a few items your partner likes to stash away in their personal space.

While obvious red flags like lack of emotional intelligence or infidelity are easier to spot, the more subtle ones, which also deserve “the talk”, may go unnoticed if you aren’t fully aware of them. A dating expert lists five things at your partner’s place that should concern you.

The Asian couple getting upset with each other in bedroom.
Credit: Sutthichai Supapornpasupad | Getty Images

5 household red flags you shouldn’t ignore

Matchmaking expert, April Davis, discusses different items at your partner’s house that should be treated as “red flags”.

While the picture of a former lover hanging on the wall is outright unacceptable, there are more household items you may not have thought of as a problem, listed below.

Photos of an ex

This one is obvious – nobody wants to see their present lover’s ex-flame, especially in their house. April says it is a problem if your partner has their former lover’s pictures on display. She believes “it might signal unresolved feelings or emotional baggage.”

“They may be clinging to memories, meaning theyll struggle to fully commit to their relationship with you,” the dating expert warns.

Extreme clutter

Hoarding isn’t just a problematic behavior; recent studies associate it with ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder). If your partner is big on hoarding, you may want to take a hard look at your relationship.

“While clutter alone doesnt make or break a relationship, it could indicate that your partner struggles with emotional overwhelm or avoids dealing with personal issues. Neglecting their living space might be a sign that theyre willing to neglect other areas of their life,” explains April.

‘Pick-Up Artist’ Books

Don’t take this one lightly, perhaps you’re dating a narcissist without realizing it. Finding books detailing pick-up artist techniques such as manipulation or gaslighting tactics at your partner’s is a big no-no.

Not only does this raise questions about the relationship considering your partner still engages in the contents of the book to navigate your relationship, but it can also imply they are struggling internally.

“Your partners interest in these books could suggest they struggle with vulnerability, openness, or confidence, preferring to rely on scripted interactions rather than building connections organically,” she says.

Expired calendar

According to the matchmaking expert, a calendar that hasn’t been updated in months or years can “symbolize avoidance of planning for the future or difficulty with time management.”

Although it isn’t a deal breaker, reluctance to replace an old calendar with a new one reflects poorly on your partner’s character. It can eventually affect your relationship if facing responsibilities is an issue.

Too many take-out menus

Dining out once in a while is necessary to keep the spark flying in the relationship. It allows you to dress up, step out with your loved one, and experience romance in a new setting.

However, if your partner has a drawer full of take-out menus, take it as a sign of “lack of concern for health or financial planning.”

“When setting up a home together, you want a partner wholl see the responsibility to care for your home as a group effort. Over time, your partners reluctance to cook for themself might manifest into an unwillingness to help with any domestic chore,” the expert warns.

April Davis is the founder and president of LUMA Luxury Matchmaking, which caters to professionals, executives, and millionaires who are serious about finding a long-term partner. She set up her first successfully married couple when she was just 16 years old.