Before buying a home, you should thoroughly investigate the property. This will not only help you determine the value of the property, but may also save money in the long run.
Check out the property thouroughly
Check for cracks in the walls, both inside and outside. Smell for damp and feel plastered walls for moisture.
Be wary of new paint or wallpaper – this could be hiding cracks or damp. Check for woodworm and rot if the property has wooden window frames, doors and floors. Also look for wood dust and shedded wings which can indicate termites.
On the outside
Make sure there are no roof tiles missing – missing tiles could lead to leaking and other water damage. Check for large trees near the building as their roots could damage the foundations. A good indication of a leaking roof is watermarks on the ceiling, if watermarks are present remember to ask the seller if the repairs are under warranty.
On the inside
Inspect bathrooms to see if they are well ventilated, and check if the taps work and the toilets flush properly. Make a note of odd-shaped rooms to assess what furniture to put into them. Look at the colours of the walls and carpets, to see if they match your colour schemes, also check the condition of the carpets and assess if they will need to be replaced.
State of repair
Look at the plug points. If they are of an old design you might have to rewire. Is the roof insulated and with what – if the house is old you might have to replace the insulation? Find out when the geyser was last serviced. Check the distribution box, a badly wired property could be costly and dangerous. On any property purchase an electrical compliance certificate is required before the property can be transferd, which should protect you as the purchaser. If the electrical wiring etc is not acceptable then a certificate can’t be issued.
Check the garden to see if you will need to remove any trees and also note if any of the trees have started to crack the structure. Are there boundary walls? If not, and you have pets, it might be advisable to erect them. If there are electric fences, gates and garage doors, check if they are in working order and whether they need a service. Check the last time the borehole and sprinkler system were serviced.
Like the property
Ask the seller as many questions as you possibly. Find out why he is moving. Ask about the crime in the area – or phone the local police station for crime statistics, another good resource is the local newspaper.
Buyers checklist
Print out this checklist and complete it at each house you visit.
Learn “How to buy a home” with IPS