When you go to look at a house, it is essential that you are aware of the things that you should be looking for since purchasing a home is likely to be the most significant financial choice you will ever make. Therefore, you will have a better chance of finding a house that meets your needs and will be aware of any potential pitfalls.

During your property viewing, pay close attention to the following possible problems, as they may be indications that costly repairs may be necessary in the course of the transaction. For instance, checking the condition of the windows is crucial, especially if you have casement windows, as you might need a house window replacement if they are in poor shape. 

Asking about problematic weeds in the garden is an important consideration when looking at a house. Invasive or aggressive weeds can be difficult and time-consuming to manage, potentially leading to long-term maintenance challenges. Checking for weed issues can help you estimate the level of maintenance required and decide if the garden fits your preferences for effort and upkeep.

Additionally, if you do not have a significant budget that goes beyond the cost of the property, you may not want to continue. Request that your surveyor take a closer look at the home and garden if you are still interested in purchasing the property. Subsequently, get estimates for the repairs and make an effort to negotiate a reduction in the original purchase price.

Key Aspects to Evaluate

What to look for in a garden when buying a property?

When buying a property, the garden can be a valuable feature if it aligns with your lifestyle and gardening goals. Here are some key factors to consider:

1. Size and Layout: Assess if the garden’s size fits your needs, whether for relaxation, entertaining, or growing plants. A flat layout may be easier to maintain, while slopes might require terracing or landscaping.
2. Sunlight Exposure: Check the garden’s orientation and sunlight availability, as this affects what you can grow and how you can use the space.
3. Soil Quality: Good soil is essential for healthy plants. Look for well-draining, nutrient-rich soil or plan for soil improvement.
4. Plantings: Evaluate existing plants and trees. Mature trees can provide shade and privacy, but they might also need maintenance.
5. Water Access: Ensure there are accessible water sources, such as outdoor faucets, and consider the area’s climate and water restrictions.
6. Privacy and Noise: Fences, hedges, or natural barriers can offer privacy and reduce noise from neighbors or nearby roads.
7. Potential for Improvement: Consider the garden’s potential for customization, such as adding a vegetable patch, herb garden, or outdoor seating area.
8. Maintenance Requirements: Assess the upkeep the garden will require and whether it matches your time and skill level for gardening.

A well-thought-out garden can enhance your living experience and even add value to your property!

Is There Evidence of Moisture Present?

When inspecting a property, look for dampness. Mouldy odors, crumbly plaster, and watermarks on the walls or ceilings are the primary indicators that something is wrong. It is common for sellers to attempt to conceal indications of dampness by repainting the property. 

Therefore, it is important to check attentively and be on the lookout for any strange odors, including the presence of an air freshener that may be present in an effort to mask the odor of dampness.

The Windows’ State

Examine the condition of the window frames outside. If individuals have invested in and maintained things, they have probably taken excellent care of the remainder of the home, which makes them a wonderful predictor of its condition. In general, wooden window frames are considered rotten if you can easily insert your finger into them. Double-glazed windows are defective if there is condensation between the panels.

When considering new windows, it’s also important to look at various window types to match the aesthetics of the house. Installing new windows requires a qualified, recognized inspector, so you should get a FENSA or comparable certificate, which sometimes includes guarantees. You or your conveyancing lawyer may inquire about the homeowner’s installation date and certifications.

Indications of Potential Structural Problems

When purchasing a home, one important thing to check for is large cracks. Pay special attention to the expansions, terrace walls, and bay windows, which may collapse or bend away from the home. 

Some fractures seem to be more serious than they really are; nonetheless, they might be simple cracks in the plaster. Therefore, indicate it to your surveyor so that they may look into it further.

Roof Condition

The cost of replacing a roof is high, and depending on the materials used, contemporary roofs only last 15 to 20 years. Therefore, it’s critical that you take this into account when deciding what to look for when you visit a home.

Additionally, examine the material used for sealing if the property’s roof is flat or nearly level. These days, a membrane is used instead of gravel and asphalt, which might leave edges and seams exposed.

The Electrical

Wiring that is not in good condition may be hazardous, and the process of rewiring your new house can be a very costly endeavor. Also, be sure to inspect the fuse board, which is often a good indicator of the condition of the wiring. Surveying it will determine whether or not it needs to be replaced, as well as the anticipated expenses associated.

Plumbing and boiler

Check the water pressure by running the taps. Make sure the pipes are not lead, which would need replacement, and inquire whether they are insulated. Are the radiators indeed functional? When was the boiler last serviced, and how old is it? When purchasing a home, one should check for signs that the hot water tank is likely old and may need to be replaced soon, such as if it is located in the roof.

Crucial Questions to Pose

• Is parking available for private use? A garage? Or will you need a parking permit if you’re driving?

• Are the fire and burglar alarms operational?
• How good is cell phone coverage?
• Is the home in a conservation area or a listed building?
• What is the property’s council tax band?
• What is the EPC score?
• Do all the windows and doors have locks and keys?
• Does the property have a history of flooding, or is it located in a flood zone?
• Is there a presence of invasive weeds in the garden?
• What are the available internet speeds and providers?
• How do the neighbors behave?

Additionally, you should never rely only on the estate agent’s assurance that everything is OK. It’s wise to make arrangements to have a home survey completed when you purchase a property.