Property Checklist

A checklist becomes indispensable when you are genuinely considering the purchase of a property. It aids in making a more informed decision that transcends mere visual appeal. Additionally, it can assist in mitigating the emotional attachment you may develop towards a property you aspire to own.

Acquiring a new home represents a substantial commitment, and it is crucial to know what to observe during a house viewing. Conducting a thorough assessment initially can prevent unnecessary expenses and repairs in the future.

Space

Allocate a minute or two to evaluate the dimensions of each room in relation to the furnishings you intend to place within them.

For instance, will the kitchen accommodate a refrigerator, freezer, dishwasher, washing machine, and tumble dryer, or will you need to prioritize which of these appliances are essential?

Appliances

Enquire whether any existing appliances, such as washing machines and dishwashers, will be included in the sale. It is prudent to clarify the status of any items that are not permanently affixed to the property to avoid unexpected outcomes.

Ensure that all appliances are functioning properly, including radiators and showers. Additionally, ask about the installation or servicing history of the boiler.

Condition

Assess whether there is any pre-existing damage to the carpets, walls, or fixtures. If such damage is present, bring it to the attention of the estate agent or current owner to discuss potential repairs prior to your move-in date, or to negotiate a price adjustment that reflects the cost of necessary repairs.

Natural Light

Assess the amount of natural light the property receives throughout the day, paying attention to any artificial lighting that may be in use during your visit.

To determine the sunlight exposure of each room, observe their orientations: east-facing rooms will capture morning sunlight, west-facing rooms will bask in evening light, and south-facing rooms will enjoy sunlight for the majority of the day.

Mobile and Internet Connectivity

During your visit, evaluate the mobile phone signal strength to confirm that your service provider offers adequate coverage in the vicinity. Additionally, consider testing the broadband speed or researching the expected internet speeds for the area online.

Outdoor Area

For those who appreciate outdoor activities, the size of the outdoor area is crucial. However, the orientation of this space is equally significant, as it may determine whether your garden, patio, or balcony is shaded during your preferred times. Utilize a compass application on your smartphone to verify the direction indicated in the property listing.

If the property includes a shared garden, ascertain who is responsible for its upkeep.

Parking Facilities

If the property features a designated parking space or driveway, you can easily assess whether it meets your needs. If not, observe the traffic on the street and evaluate the likelihood of finding parking nearby on a daily basis.

It may be beneficial to return in the evening during peak parking hours to gauge the situation more accurately.

Lease Information

For those considering a leasehold property, it is vital to ascertain the remaining duration of the lease and whether there are monthly service charges to be paid.

Community Insight

Attempt to gather information about the neighbors along the street. Are there many families with young children? Are the properties and gardens well-maintained? Consider the proximity of your nearest neighbors and whether their activities are audible from your property, both outdoors and indoors.

Ongoing Expenses

Enquire if the current owner can provide insights into their monthly expenditures on utilities and council tax.

Transportation

It is advisable to plan your daily commute and any other frequent journeys you undertake. Consider testing the route on a particular day to assess the punctuality of services and the level of congestion.

If you intend to utilise public transportation, it may be prudent to walk from the station to your residence during the evening hours to evaluate your comfort level with making that trip regularly.

Local Amenities

Investigate the availability of local general practitioners and dental clinics where you can register for services.

Additionally, ascertain the presence of cafés, pubs, fitness centers, and other essential amenities in the vicinity. It may be beneficial to experience these facilities firsthand before making a long-term commitment to residing in the area.