Going through the process of buying a house for the first time (or let’s face it – anytime ) can be very exciting but also more than a little daunting.
If you have the correct facts, or can ask the right questions, it will stand you in good stead and help you to make an informed decision. It may also give you the information that you need to negotiate on the price as well as making you feel more confident in a process that you are unsure of.
Harrison Murray Estate Agency and the Nottingham Estate Agency have some advice and tips surrounding issues buyers need guidance on, may have never thought of, or even dared to ask in the first place. These are examples of sound advice and apply to purchasing in any part of the UK, including Torbay.
What is the position of the sellers? It is vital to know if the sellers are serious or toe-dippers. If they are in a hurry to sell then it may be easier to negotiate with them.
1 What is included in the sale?
Through your agent, try to ensure the sellers have an inventory that sets out their intentions surrounding fixtures and fittings – from curtain poles and carpets to garden ornaments.
2 Does the Torbay property have its own private drainage, and who will be responsible in the event of environmental damage or spillage onto private land?
3 Is the house listed and/or does it stand in a conservation area? This is important to know if you are planning an extension or even want to paint the outside of the property a particular colour in the future.
4 Which way does the house face? It may seem trivial but if you like early morning and evening sun, an east/west facing house might suit – but a south facing garden may appeal more to those with green fingers.
5 What is your legal right of way? Check to see if the house has a shared driveway and what the implications are, as well as where the boundaries of the property lie.
6 What are the neighbours like? Visit the property at different times of the day to try and monitor what’s happening at nearby houses – barking dogs, trampolines or hot tubs in the back garden could signal noise.
8 When do the sellers have to move out? Have they found another home? This information will help you plan the timings of your move or discount the property if the move will take far longer than you hoped.
It may also be worth finding out if any decorating has taken place recently and if so why? Most people will re-paint a room to freshen it up, but others may do so to hide cracks or cover damp.
It is best to ask the right questions in the beginning rather than find out that your dream home turns into a complete nightmare or a money pit! Being aware of any potential problems gives you the opportunity to prepare for any ‘hidden’ costs or safeguard your purchase at the point of sale – not finding out about them when it is too late.
Finally – happy house hunting and best of luck with your future purchase!
Adapted from original article: http://www.propertyreporter.co.uk/property/what-should-you-ask-when-buying-a-property.html
