You may have already found your dream home, but before you commit to buying it, there are a number of things you should check, starting with the location. You’re going to need to know where it is and how close it is to everything that matters.
There are a number of things you should check before buying a house. It’s always essential to go through the property with a fine-toothed comb. The more you understand about the home before you buy, the fewer problems you’ll encounter after moving in. Below read the points on more things you should know before buying house
Here are some of the key things to check when viewing a house:
Property history: You should always ask for records relating to building plans and any other alterations that have been made to the home. If possible, get hold of any historical documentation that may be available such as building permits, architectural plans and certificates of occupancy. This will help you establish whether any additions were made legally or not.
Structural integrity: Check whether there are any cracks or gaps on both the interior and exterior walls of your house or apartment. You should also see whether there are any loose or missing roof tiles, and check under the eaves for signs of damage from water or the weather. It’s important to look at all aspects of a property, including its foundation; this is where most structural damage occurs in properties over time.
Local area: Check out the local area and find out what is nearby, including local amenities such as schools, shops and leisure facilities. If you are moving somewhere new, try and get a feel for the local community before buying a house. Also look at crime statistics in the area and find out whether there have been any problems with flooding or subsidence in the past.
Surveyors report: After making an offer on a house you will be required to pay for a surveyor’s report. This is an inspection by a professional surveyor who will examine the condition of the property and highlight any issues requiring repair or further investigation. This might include structural problems or damage from damp or rot, so make sure you read your surveyor’s report carefully before committing to buy a house.
Estate agent’s particulars: The sales particulars produced by estate agents are intended to provide information about the property that helps prospective buyers make an informed decision about whether or not to view it.
There are several steps you should take before buying a house. One of the most important is arranging for a home inspection. A qualified inspector will look for interior and exterior defects on your prospective home, but there are some things you should check yourself, before signing a contract. A stethoscope lets you listen at the foundation of your house, to help detect issues with plumbing or wiring behind walls. Shaking an electrical outlet can tell you if it has loose wires. Checking that doors and windows close properly can prevent drafts and conserve energy.
