What To Examine When Viewing A Property You Might Buy

Published On April 7, 2023 | By Oliver | Home Improvement

When exploring the housing market, looking for a place to call home or finding a new investment, there is a great deal of work that must be done. Aside from the seemingly endless bureaucracy and the significant financial risk associated with such investments, there is the crucial consideration of property inspection.

Many of these checks will be performed by certified professionals, such as architects and electricians, that will ensure the property is in suitable condition, as well as matching its description on paper. There are elements, however, that will fall to the buyer to notice. These can even be potentially small details, those that would otherwise be brushed over. However, without being picked up upon, small details can very easily become more significant issues down this line, which is why it’s essential that they are caught prior to an exchange taking place.

Moisture Levels

Within the UK, and due to the rainy climate, there is a persistent and seemingly ubiquitous risk of dampness within homes. Given any opportunity, moisture will inevitably make its way into a property and, without supervision or control, begin to establish itself permanently in the form of mould.

When inspecting a property, it is important that you are constantly aware of moisture levels. This can be challenging because sellers are likely to ensure their property appears as presentable as possible, covering patches of mould with paint and ventilating rooms before viewings. However, a keen eye can still reveal cold walls, dark patches of paint, and damaged wood to see the suggestion of moisture.

Regular Maintenance

A home is not necessarily a lock up and leave property. There are a number of factors that can mean it requires a degree of ongoing maintenance. Gardens, for example, generally require significant care to ensure they do not become overgrown, which is why many prefer to design their outdoor spaces with comfort in mind, choosing log cabins and decking areas.

Maintenance can also occur in repairs and renovations, which is where buyers can potentially negotiate with sellers if the property is likely to require a certain amount of work to make it liveable or comfortable. By spotting such characteristics, such as windows in need of replacement or roof tiles that need repairing, you might find yourself able to make a more beneficial offer on the property.

Future Costs

Alongside potential renovations and repairs, there is also the consideration of ongoing costs, such as those from utilities. These costs, such as an electricity bill, might not seem like much each month but a home can quickly become unexpectedly expensive when taking into account other bills too, such as council tax, water, and broadband.

As such, it is important that buyers make themselves aware of the running costs a property might incur. Certain aspects, such as the absence of gas or the presence of solar panels, can make a significant difference to the future costs residents can be expected to pay. Even accessibility costs and parking can be a potential consideration, depending on the type of home you’re looking to buy!

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About The Author

Oliver Beau Martinez: Oliver, a home security expert, provides recommendations on security systems, safety tips, and ways to make homes more secure.