A new survey from home builder
Strata explores people’s attitudes to home buying. Forty two per cent of potential buyers will view 4-8 properties before making a decision. More than one third (31%) will see up to three properties and 10% are less decisive, viewing more than 16 homes before committing.
Homeowners will look at more properties (24% view 9-15 properties) than first time buyers. The ‘feel of the area’ was deemed of utmost importance by 86% of current homeowners and 78% deem ‘status of the area’ important.
Would you spend just 20 minutes viewing a property that is going to be your home for many years? Don't make the mistake of rushing your viewing. This checklist from
Homebuyers Alliance sets out the dos and don’ts and the right questions to ask before deciding.
1. Is there damp?
The main giveaway signs are a mouldy smell, flaky plaster, and watermarked walls or ceilings. It sounds obvious, but make sure you look closely near the ceiling and around the skirting boards. Another clue might be if the room has just been repainted – possibly covering any damp
2. Is the building structurally sound?
If the house looks and feels solid and structurally sound you may not need a surveyor at all. Big cracks are what you are looking for – you should expect some hairline cracks. Look especially around where extensions join, end-of-terrace walls, and bay windows, all of which can start to fall or bow away from the rest of the house. If you see major cracks or have any doubts it might be worth getting a surveyor See What sort of survey should I have? – if only for peace of mind. If any walls look like they are seriously bowing consider engaging a structural engineer.
3. is there enough storage space?
Storage space is a valuable but often overlooked asset. Where will you keep your vacuum cleaner, towels, spare linen, and boxes of junk? Is there room for cupboards or shelves to be built in? Especially in newly built houses, storage space can be scarce
4. Which way does the house face?
In winter, during a cloudy day or at night, it is difficult to tell the difference between a north and south facing house or garden – but in summer it can make the difference between a home that is full of light and warmth, and one that is frustratingly dark. Your favourite plants might notice too. Don’t be shy about taking a compass with you to the viewing – you might have one on your iPhone.
5. Are the rooms big enough for your needs?
Occasionally, it has been known for sellers to put smaller furniture in rooms to make them seem bigger.
6. Have you been fooled by staging?
Cleverly placed mirrors, strategic lighting, delicious smells, cosy fires, and fresh licks of paint makes homes more appealing. Make sure you don’t get fooled.
Read the remainder of the top fourteen tips
here.
Check the whereabouts and levels of external drains. Are the drains accessible and are they fully functional? Keen gardeners may use lots of extra water, which can cause severe structural problems for potential home improvements such as conservatories or patios. If you are concerned about insufficient drainage for a property you wish to buy, then get a structural survey.
Most importantly, does it feel like you could make it your home? If you do like a property, arrange another viewing for a different time of day. It’s a good idea to take somebody with you who might be able to notice things you might have missed.
