Looking for a new home can be an exciting time. You get to start off with a clean slate and design your new home in a way that makes you smile every time you walk through the door.
However, when it comes to buying a house you need to know what you are looking for to make sure the property you purchase is the best for you, meets your needs and, of course, is in good condition. You can click here to read more about new homes on the market right now to help your search.
Structural Issues
Although you look for large cracks, you should also expect more minor hairline cracks. Pay close attention to the areas where extensions meet, end-of-terrace walls and bay windows as all of these can begin to fall or bow away from the rest of the house if not maintained properly.
You’re looking for issues right now that you can bring to the attention of the homeowner or estate agent and then you can ask your surveyor to look into them late, however you can only look for what you are familiar with; a chartered surveyor with years of experience is trained to identify risks and recognise when something needs to be addressed.
Windows
When purchasing a home one of the most important things to look for is the condition of the external window frames. These are excellent indicators of the overall state of a residence: If people have invested in and cared for these they are likely to have done the same with the remaining components.
The window is likely rotting if you can easily insert your finger into a wooden window frame. If there is condensation between the panes of a double-glazed window this indicates that the window is faulty- inquire as to whether this is the case. A registered approved inspector must install new windows and you should obtain a FENSA or equivalent certificate, which is frequently accompanied by a guarantee.
Electrical Sockets
Having enough plug sockets around the house is essential. Look for new sockets that can indicate electrical work has been done. Check the condition of the fuse board too. Rewiring a home can be expensive, and the last thing you want is to move in to find you have to rewire everywhere.
Plumbing
You don’t need to be told of the damage poorly maintained pipework can cause. But while indoor-plumbing problems can be a nightmare, so too can externally blocked drains pipes too both on your property and neighbouring houses. Plumbing issues can occur in any homes but if you are buying a newly built home these issues haven’t been identified yet and can cause problems in the future.
Look for signs of damp both inside and outside the home around sinks, showers and baths. Fresh paint can indicate a cover-up if done in certain places; leaks can leave a mark on walls and ceilings which people might look to cover up. Also, pay attention to any strong odours outside of the property too which can alert you to any problems with blocked drains or even blocked gutters if water is stagnating in gutters.