Buying your first home? These are the things you should be looking for

Written by Posted On Friday, 19 July 2019 06:42

Is there anything more exciting and more rewarding than that first step onto the property ladder? All your hard work is going to finally pay off, you can have something to call you own and even pass onto your children, not to mention the financial benefits of your investments. But if you’re beginning the search to buying your new home, then what should you be looking for? What are the minor details you should be looking at when you step into a prospective property?

Read on for a few hints and tips that will hopefully help you find that perfect property.

Check out the neighbourhood

You’ll probably get a feel of the neighbourhood and do a little research of the area when you spot a property you like the look of. However, there are other minor details you should also consider. For example, is the area known for speeding? Or is bad and inconsiderate parking a recurring problem? Is the community strong? Are there plenty of warning signs around like “children crossing” or other essential purchases such as these that should be on display around the area. If you’re planning on raising a family in your new home then these are things you should certainly consider.

Spot damp

Damp is a problem that haunts homeowners. It’s also easy to hide from people who are casually looking around. Check for wet looking areas on walls, peeling wallpaper and discoloured areas look for mould and condensation on windows. And use your nose! Does it smell damp?

Go and visit at different times of day

Your dream property might look beautiful in the morning, with lovely quiet neighbours and sunshine pouring in. However, the soul destroying music coming from next door and the dog incessantly barking across the street might not happen until after 5pm. So visit the property more than once to get a good feel for the place.

Flick those switches

Electrics are a huge budget burner. So, take your time and try every switch and light in the property. Switch on that electric shower and the cooker. Ask how old the electrics are and enquire of any work that has been completed recently.

Check for power points

You might be able to picture your living room furniture in a particular room…but if there are no power points then you’ll have to pay extra to have them installed. Count them in every room of the house and take plenty of photos for your future reference.

Test the plumbing

Again, like the electrics – plumbing is expensive. So check all the taps, look for leaks, flush the toilet and check the water pressure in the shower and check the flow of the drains!

Locks are the key

Check all the locks in the property and you’ll be able to see if they’re modern or whether or not they could be a security issue. Make sure they work!

Check your phone!

The last thing you want is to move into a signal dead zone. Check how much service you get!

 

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James Stevenson

Hi, My name is James and I've been involved in the property and real estate industry for 10 years now. I hope people will like to read about my thoughts and experiences in the industry and please contact me if you want to discuss my articles further!

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