Common Issues to Look Out For When House Hunting
Buying a home is the biggest investment many of us make in our lifetime, so it’s natural to want to make sure you’re getting a good deal. Some buyers spend just 20 minutes viewing a property that they’ll go on to live in for years, and many regret not taking more time to spot potential issues. Building problems can cost homeowners a lot of money in the long run, so it’s important to have the full picture of a property before you make any decisions.
With this in mind, we’ve put together a brief guide for some issues to look out for when house hunting.
Damp can cause significant structural damage to a property if left untreated, and it can lead to health issues for anyone living in the building too. Telltale signs of damp include a musty smell, flaky or peeling plaster and watermarked walls or ceilings.
This can be caused by a buildup of mineral deposits in a building’s pipes or a faulty valve. Low water pressure can be fixed, but in extreme cases you might need to replace the pipes completely .Turn on the hot and cold taps in any property you view to ensure there’s a strong, steady stream of water.
A roof has a life expectancy of around 15 to 20 years (depending on the materials) so don’t be shy about asking when it was last replaced. You should also look out for cracked or missing flashing, water stains on ceilings or in attics, and broken or missing shingles.
Unwanted noise can have a negative impact on your quality of life, so bear this in mind before making any decisions. Single glazed properties will have less insulation against noise, so take this into account if the property is not double glazed. Also look at the area; is the property near a pub or late night shop which might become noisy? Is it near a main road, train track or underneath a flight path?
If you’re a first time buyer in need of some professional help, get in touch with the team at Andrew Lee & Co. Our experienced property lawyers are on hand to help you with a wide range of services, from securing a loan to understanding your new purchase contract. We’re here to help every step of the way, so give us a call today or visit our website to find out more.
