The first and most important thing that you should do is to make a careful and close inspection of the property’s condition. Obviously, this depends mainly on what kind of property you are planning to buy. Is it an old house that needs complete restoration? Is it a property that has been renovated or modernized or is it a new and modern home? For each kind of property, there are very important things that need to be focused on. Read through and check out some of the things that you should know before buying a property.
Buying an Old Property
Buying an old property is perhaps one of the wisest and most practical decisions you can make. However, if you don’t know the things that you should carefully check, think again! You might end up spending more than what you could spend when you buy a new one. Some simple checks you can do by yourself include:
- Checking visible signs of decay and damage, cracked or bulging walls, missing roof slates, rising damp and decayed woodwork.
- Checking some areas that are prone to storms, subsidence and flooding. Checking the old property after a strong typhoon or heavy rainfall is a wise thing to do. See and check for other possible problems.
- If you suspect or find any problems, you should ask a builder to check the property or ask a surveyor to perform a structural survey.
Buying a Renovated or Restored Property
One of the common problems with buying a restored or renovated property is that you are not sure if the restoration or renovation has been done properly - particularly if the renovation or restoration has been done by the owner. If the renovation has been done by the local builders, it’s recommended that you see the bills. Some simple checks you can do by yourself include:
Testing the plumbing, electrical system, central heating, hot water boiler and main water system
Important Things to Checkyou are buying a new or old property, below are the things that you should check to avoid possible problems that may arise in the future:
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Land
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Before buying a property on its plot of land, you should walk on its boundaries and look for driveways, fences, and overhanging roof space of building that are intruding upon the property. If you are not sure about the property boundaries, you should ask a surveyor to survey the land especially when the property is on a large plot of land.
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You should also ask your lawyer to check the plans available in the municipality to find out how you can use the land and whether there are already existing rights of way. Finally, always take the advice of your lawyer before making decisions.
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Plot
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If you are planning to buy a new property, do not forget to check the building permission. Was it applied for? Was it granted?
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Check if there are disputes over the boundaries and if you are planning to have an addition on you plot, make sure that it doesn’t encroach on your neighbor’s plots or vice versa.
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It is also advisable that you check whether the water supply or electrical system is routed through another property. If it is, check if the owner is allowed to tamper with it or disconnect it.
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Check for underground springs or streams and whether your neighbors are allowed to water on your land.
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If your plot is not enclosed, it is best that you check the regulation and policies about the allowable type and height of boundary.
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Space
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Check if there is a sufficient space for your needs especially if you plan to live in the property permanently.
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If you are planning to buy an apartment, check if it is possible for you to obtain additional space within the building.
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Title
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Check if the property you are planning to buy corresponds with how it is described in the title deeds.
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