They say the home is a man’s castle. But, finding the house of your dreams can be a long and arduous process with many challenges and disappointments along the way.
That is why it is so vitally important to be prepared, think logically and keep our emotions in check. Remember not to let your heart rule your head. After all, this is likely to be the biggest expense of your life and one that shouldn’t be taken lightly.
One way of doing this and avoiding the pitfalls of a bad property purchase is to take the time to plan ahead and know exactly what it is that you are looking for in your perfect home.
Below are some key points to think about when beginning to viewing process of finding your dream home.
Perhaps the best place to start is with your budget. Ensuring that you know your figures inside out and know exactly what you can and can’t afford is essential. Although it can be disappointing to realise that we aren’t able to afford that fancy five bedroom home with the swimming…..not yet at least! This process will assist you when it comes to limiting and refining your market, thus ensuring that you are looking in the right areas. Location can make or break a home and is of the utmost importance and will be touched on in greater depth below. Knowing your numbers will also assist you in your mortgage application (should you wish to acquire one).
Another point to focus on before going to view any properties is gaining a full understanding what it is you want from your new home and thinking carefully about what your plans for the future entail. As mentioned above, buying a property is extremely expensive and you want your home to be just right for you, now and in the future. Therefore, think about what it is that you want from your home e.g. are you planning on having a family soon and if so is the house you are currently looking at going to be suitable for this? What is the market currently looking like and what have the house prices done in the past in the area the property is located e.g. would it be possible to sell in two years (if necessary) and see an increase in price? A point to remember here is that the cost of Stamp Duty Land Tax is expensive and something that you may wish to consider should you need to move again in the near future. Therefore, planning ahead is an essential step.
Further to the above point, and perhaps the most important of all is location. One you feel you have found the area you are going to buy in it is well worthwhile taking the time to get to know the surroundings and experience it first-hand. Spend some time in the area finding out what it is like and getting your bearings – one way of doing this may be to visit the local pubs and restaurants for an afternoon so that you get a feel for the vibe of the area. Focus on what the roads like around the house you are viewing. Are they congested with traffic, is the noise pollution going to be a problem issue and do you feel it is safe for the children, should you have a young family? Find out what amenities are close by and consider whether the local shops, schools, parks, access to motorways and public transport are adequate for your lifestyle. This investment of your time may prove invaluable and will be well worth it in the long run.
Alternatively, if you are planning on moving to a completely new area and it is a viable option, you may wish to consider renting first before buying. That way if you find it is not suitable for you it is much easier to cut your losses and try again elsewhere.
Before the actual viewing make sure you are prepared and have a list of questions you wish to ask of the property owner and have a checklist of the things you want to look out for so that you don’t forget.
Viewing another family’s home can sometimes be an awkward experience and it is easy to forget simple questions or to look out for certain things. Therefore, go prepared and don’t be afraid to ask questions and inspect. It is likely that the owner will have a wealth of knowledge about the property (for example, knowledge of any disputes with neighbours). so don’t be afraid to ask them. After all, you are the one who would be parting with a large sum of money. You have the right to ask and find out more in order to feel comfortable and confident in parting with your money. Just remember, don’t rely on the answers supplied by the seller – searches and reports are always advised. However, remember in some instances, such as when an Executor is selling they may have no knowledge of the property.
When outside the property look at the structure of the building and focus on the condition of the roof. Find out how old it is and whether any work has been carried out to repair any damage. Does the building look like it has been looked after well by the owner or is it tired and in need of repair? Again, if so question the owner regarding this and find out as much information as possible.
If you notice any new additions to the property make sure you find out whether planning permission and building regulations documentation was obtained and whether this can be supplied should you wish to make an offer later on down the line and proceed with the purchase.
A simple, but often forgotten point is that of the direction of the house. If you want those nice summer evenings spent in the garden with friends over for a BBQ it is unlikely that a South facing house will meet your needs – a small point, but one that is worth considering.
Once inside take your time and look around remembering your prepared questions and checklist through. Look at the structural lay out of the property, will this work for you. When considering this remember not to be perturbed by the current owner’s use of the space and their tastes. Try to look past this if it is not for you and envision the potential that the property holds for you. However, do pay close attention to the smell of the property. Do you notice any dampness? Is that smell of fresh paint simply that or is it trying to mask something more sinister? Don’t be afraid to investigate further when moving around the property. Tap and knock on the walls – does it sound hollow? If so this could be a sign that the plaster is loose. Are you able to push your fingers into wooden window frames? Again, if so they are likely to need replacing soon. Speaking of windows, make sure that all windows can open and close and that the necessary keys are all accounted for. If double glazed look for signs of condensation between the glass, this may mean they need replacing and remember if they are not double glazing, is this something you are happy with e.g. possibility of noise pollution and incurring extra expenditure on your heating bill each month making up for the loss of heat.
Along the same lines is the necessity to check that all taps are in working order and all toilets flush. As mentioned before, this may feel awkward, but this is an expensive investment and as long as you politely explain/ask the seller if it is okay to do this it should not be a problem. In fact, it shows that you are a serious viewer and potential buyer with intent. Remember, you do not want to discover hidden gremlins later on down the line because you didn’t check. This process of inspection may also highlight any problems and provide you with the chance to discuss with the owner the possibility of any necessary repairs being incorporated in the agreement at the cost of the seller or a reduction in purchase price.
Another extremely important element of the viewing process is discovering the age and condition of the boiler. The installation of a new boiler can be costly and not an expense you will want to incur upon moving into your new home. Just think of all of those lovely new furnishings you could spend your money on instead! Take the time to look at the electrics and find out where the power points are located throughout the house. Are they in suitable locations and are there enough?
The viewing process will also present you with the chance to discuss with the owner what the intend to take with them and what they wish to leave behind. You may have your eyes fixed on that fancy curtain rail across the patio doors, but remember, that may not be part of the contract. – so ask questions and find out.
One final point is the strength of your mobile signal. Again, this may be an insignificant point to some. But, for others walking around the house trying to find a signal or only being able to send and receive texts message whilst leaning out of the bedroom window will be an unbearable pain for others. If this is a concern for you ask you network provider or search online for the signal strength in the area where you are looking to move to find out more.
Finally, once you think you’ve found your dream home and feel prepared to make an offer, remember to do your research. Many online sites provide you with information of when a property was last sold, how much and other information such as when the property was first listed and whether there have been any variations in the market price. This should assist you in your preparation for making an offer.
If you would like further information of how to prepare in your search for a new property contact Law and Life today on 01892 526 442 or email enquiries@keenemarsland.co.uk quoting reference RCHBG1216
Ashley Burgess-Payne
Trainee Solicitor
Law and Life, Keene Marsland
