Purchasing a house is undoubtedly a necessity, but it is also a crucial decision that should be carefully considered. The process of buying a new home isn’t easy and deciding on the right property can cause anxiety. Having a list of things to check and questions to ask the estate agent can help you when considering a property to buy. Choosing between two properties that you like can also be made easier by using this checklist. Finding the right home is exciting, but it can also be challenging. Finding and reviewing homes takes time and energy, even when you have a great agent and know what you’re looking for.
Let’s take a deep dive into the 10 important things you need to look for in a property for sale?
1) Check everything in detail: During your visit to the residential property, do not hesitate to examine everything thoroughly. Here are some things you can check:
- Windows & doors open & close smoothly
- Ensure that every room has sufficient ventilation and daylight
- All taps have good water pressure
- Wiring and electrics
- Security and privacy
In spite of your discomfort at testing every single thing at the viewing, any problems you find can either be resolved or help you negotiate.
2) Check the Available Space: Whenever a floor is empty, it will look more spacious than when it is furnished, so it is necessary to check the view from this perspective. Make sure there is enough space for wardrobes, shelves, and cupboards. Make sure your furniture fits comfortably and does not block switches or sockets.
3) Room Size: You should ensure that each room has a substantial size. Take a tape measure to ensure that your furniture will fit into the room. Don’t fall for sneaky sellers who place smaller furniture in a room to make it look larger.
4) Neighbourhood: One of the most important things to consider is the location of the house when buying one. You can change the house, but not the location. Find out if the area has good schools, excellent transport links, and lots of parks and green spaces. Additionally, you can choose an area with a good sense of community and upcoming urban development.
5) Check for Dampness: Whether you are buying or renting a residential property, this is one of the biggest concerns. The most common signs of dampness in a property are smelly rooms, shedding wallpaper, bubbling paint, and dark marks on the walls & ceiling. It is important to avoid any property with any of these markings during a site visit, as any cracks or dampness may indicate a very serious problem with the property.
6) Check the Lights: Make sure the switches are sturdy and the lights are working. Look for enough plug points and note their locations. Inquire about the existing installations, such as whether broadband and TV are available.
7) Examine the Walls: Inspect the walls for any damage. Generally, hairline cracks don’t pose a problem, but larger ones could indicate structural issues.
8) Check the Plumbing: Make sure all plumbing fixtures are working properly. Observe damp spots under sinks and silicone molds around baths and showers. Make sure the water pressure is satisfactory.
9) Assess the Roof: From the roof material to the gutters, it’s vital to pay attention to the roof. Check the waterproofing to make sure there are no leaks that cause interior damage and dripping noises. A new roof can be expensive, so make sure it is structurally sound before you move in.
10) Check the Building Potential: Check whether the house has development potential and if you can boost the investment potential by making changes. Find out if you can add an extension, convert a loft, or knock down a wall to create a kitchen-dining area. Make sure you check if a building is listed or if any protections are in place against alterations since listed buildings are protected from being altered in any way that would affect their character.
Conclusion:
Buying a home is one of the biggest decisions in our lives and also the largest financial commitment. It is therefore very important to take every step carefully when buying a home since we cannot bear any mistakes. Keeping these above-listed points in mind will help you find the best property for sale.
Have you been looking for a property for sale? One Group Realty specializes in providing buying, selling, or renting properties, with innovative ways to meet our client’s needs, and be at the forefront of the market.