Top Tips for Buying a Property

Not taking enough time to really view a property is a mistake that many people make when purchasing their home. At Mayfords, we advise our clients on what to look for when making a purchase and ensure that we ask the questions that you may not even know you needed the answers to. Buying your home is probably one of the biggest purchases you will ever make, and unlike a badly chosen pair of shoes, you can’t take it back and get a refund. So to ensure that you get the most of the viewing, we have pulled together a few tips to help you with your purchase.

What’s that crack?

So the house looks structurally sound, it’s decorated beautifully, the vendors have left the smell of cinnamon buns in the oven and you are standing in the living room picturing yourself curled up on the sofa in front of the TV. Whilst it is easy to get drawn into the aesthetics of a property it is extremely important to check for cracks. Whilst you should expect some hairline cracks, look for larger ones, particularly where extensions join, around bay windows and around end of terrace walls. If you see major cracks or have any doubts it’s a good idea to get a surveyor or structural engineer.

Is there damp?

The main giveaway signs are a mouldy smell, flaky plaster, and watermarked walls or ceilings. Take a close look near the ceiling and around the skirting boards. Also, if the property smells freshly painted, take a closer look to make sure that the damp hasn’t been hidden.

The great South and North divide

If you are viewing in winter or later in the evening it can be difficult to tell which way the house is facing but it can make a real difference. Facing south and you can have a home that is bursting with light and natural warmth, however if it is northwardly facing then you could be faced with a darker interior that is slightly on the chilly side. If you are not sure, take a compass with you on the viewing, or download one on your phone. If the agent does not know at least you will be prepared.

Storage, Storage, Storage

It may sound like an obvious need but Storage space is a valuable but often overlooked asset. We always underestimate just how many things we have and conveniently believe that we can function with much less space than we actually can. The best way to make sure that you do not fall into a trap is to make a list of all the things you need to store before viewing a property and see if there is actually enough space for them.

Are the rooms big enough?

Don’t be fooled by staging, sometimes smaller furniture strategically placed in a room can make it look bigger than it actually is. If there are no measurements on the floorplan, walk with your tape measure! It’s the only way to be certain.

Watch those windows

The condition of the external window frames are a great indicator of the state of the house. If they are well looked after it can be a good sign that the rest of the house may have been well kept. If you are not sure, just look out for a few things. With wooden windows, if you can easily push your finger into the frame, this usually means that they are rotten. If there is condensation between double-glazed window-panes it means that they may be faulty.

What about the roof?

Replacing roofs is an expensive business, and newer roofs have a life expectancy of only 15-20 years, depending on the materials used. If the property has a flat or nearly flat roof, check out the material with which it has been sealed. Nowadays a membrane is used which is better than asphalt and gravel, which can leave seams and edges unsealed.

Have you got the power?

Are there enough plug sockets in the property? This is a simple one to overlook. Also check the sockets as bad wiring can be dangerous, and expensive to fix. Take a look at the fuse board which is often a really good indicator. What state is it in? How old is it?

Is the plumbing up to scratch?

Always run the taps and the shower to check the water pressure. There is nothing worse than having your first shower in your new home, only to find out that it’s more of a trickle than a blast. Also ask the agent to turn on the central heating so you can see if it works and also hear if it runs silently or could potentially keep you up at night.

What about the loft?

It is interesting how many people ignore viewing the loft but it is an important part of the house. Whilst you may not want to actually climb right up, it pays to take a peek. That way you get a feel of how easy it is to access, how much storage space and if it is possible to convert at a later date.

Get to know the local area

Don’t just view the house, view the area too. Go back at different times of the day, to ensure that you are happy and feel comfortable. A few other things to take into consideration is the distance you are away from local shops, restaurants, pubs and transport.

Buying a property can be a stressful time but it does not need to be. Make sure you choose an agent that knows the local area well and is willing to answer your questions. If you are looking for a property in Harrow and the surrounding areas you can contact one of our agents for some local advice. As property professionals in Harrow since 1979 we are more than happy to help you in your search.