10 Checks You Need to Do When Buying a New House by https://padlet.com/james_pointon/checks_when_buying_house Before you buy - don't forget to check! en-us 2016-11-21 13:39:09 UTC 2025-11-30 17:10:30 UTC hello@padlet.com https://padlet-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/icons/Simplehouse.png james_pointon https://padlet.com/james_pointon/checks_when_buying_house/wish/139079998


Buying property is a long process for a good reason – it is essential to be thorough when choosing an investment or place to live. An open for inspection gives you the opportunity to review the property and address any concerns you might have. Whether you’re an amateur or a seasoned expert, it can still be difficult to know what to look out for. Here are the top ten things you should tick off your inspection checklist. 


  1. Take Notes
    Before you even leave to visit a property, make sure you are carrying a notepad and pen. If you are visiting multiple properties, it is near impossible to keep track of each one, so writing everything down is essential. This way you can easily go home and consider the pros and cons of every option. Also, remember to find reliable and trustworthy real estate agents on websites like OpenAgent – they will be able to tell you more about the property of your choosing.


  2. Bathrooms
    Wherever possible, try to have a look at the walls surrounding showers, baths and toilets. Look out for any corrosion or water stains, as this can be a sign of a costly repair rearing its head in the near future. 


  3. Cabinets and Cupboards
    Following on from bathrooms, you should also inspect any other areas that may be prone to gathering water. For example, under the kitchen sink. If you notice a damp or mouldy smell, it could be a sign of a leak.


  4. Mould
    Mould is a furry form of fungi that usually occurs in moist, warm environments. When present, mould needs to removed by professionals, which is often quite expensive. If you do spot any mould, be sure to investigate further and figure out the cause behind it – there could be a bigger problem at hand.


  5. Flooring
    The condition of flooring is important – it needs to be both practical and visually appealing. If the floor is sloping or feelings bouncy, it may need that stumps need to be replaced or adjusted. Doing so is often a pricey job, because they stumps are situated underneath the house. Whatever type of flooring there is, consider if you will keep it or replace it, and how it will be cleaned. Some materials require more work than others!


  6. Ceiling
    The ceilings of a house are a key part of its structure, so it is worth making sure they are in good condition. An easy way to do this is to shine a torch light along the roof. The light will reveal any defects. The ceiling should be firm and straight, not sagging in any areas.


  7. Interior Walls
    Nobody wants to move in to a place that has existing cracks in the wall. Large and/or multiple cracks in the wall should be noted and questioned, as should blisters or bubbles in the paint. Unfortunately, these could indicate a structural issue and need to be assessed by a qualified building inspector.


  8. Power plugs
    Sometimes it is the minor inconveniences that cause trouble in the long run. While you may begin picturing how you will decorate the property in your head, the location of power points can stop you right in your tracks. Make an effort to search for the number of points in each room, and whereabouts they are located. This is also goes for the phone and internet lines.


  9. Noise
    If you have ever lived somewhere surrounded by loud traffic, or even just in a house with thin walls, you will understand the importance of noise in your house. Be sure to consider the sounds coming from the street, as well as testing the inside of the house by going into another room whilst others are talking.


  10. The Exterior
    Is the roof is good condition? Check for straight and clean roof gutters, connected to storm water drains. Depending on the location of the property, you may want to ask about its susceptibility to flooding in heavy downpour. The exterior of the house needs to be able to withstand weather conditions. It is also worth taking note of the garden, the effort it will take to maintain and any noticeable “pest” plants. 


If you aren’t confident in your ability to notice any problems, you can hire a professional property inspector to do the hard work for you. The inspector will present you with a detailed report that will enable you to go forth with confidence, whether to buy the property or raise specific concerns with the seller.
]]> 2016-11-21 13:42:01 UTC https://padlet.com/james_pointon/checks_when_buying_house/wish/139079998 james_pointon https://padlet.com/james_pointon/checks_when_buying_house/wish/139082511 2016-11-21 13:46:50 UTC https://padlet.com/james_pointon/checks_when_buying_house/wish/139082511