Viewing a property can be an adrenalin charged experience – particularly in a market that’s moving fast.

In some areas it’s not uncommon to find tens of other budding buyers viewing the same place and this can create real pressure when you find a place you want but to ensure that you really are buying your dream place, and not a lemon, you have to make sure that you check out the smaller details and not just look at the bigger picture.

Use a Checklist

One practical tactic for keeping your feet on the ground is to work with a checklist. We have one available on our website specifically designed for this and you can find this here. This will help ensure that you don’t cut corners in your inspection and that all the boxes are ticked before getting down to the business of putting in an offer.

Don’t be put off by rain

What better time to inspect that when it’s raining heavy! Check for drainage issues, roof leaks or faulty pipes on the outside of the house.

Look for problems

As well as checking off the general state of repair of the inside of the house, the checklist will also help remind you to check for problems with the exterior. The quality of the roof is often overlooked by over-excited buyers, for example, however this can be a costly oversight.

Take particular note of any missing or cracked roofing tiles as well as cracked brickwork, loose mortar and crumbling eves.

Damp in a house can be catastrophic, so also look for the tell-tale signs on the interior. Water marks on wall paper can be an indicator that water has leaked in; musty smelling carpet can also be a giveaway. Pay particular attention if there is baking taking place as this could be covering some unpleasant odours!

Make sure you look out for cracked ceilings and also walls that may have had cracks papered over.

A thorough inspection is especially important as sellers may try and hide any imperfections, signs of damage or problems in the making.

Just remember, you can help make sure that you don’t get lumbered with a money pit by taking time to inspect a property
thoroughly before you put in an offer.

Emotions!

Even if your first inspection comes up trumps, go home, take time to reflect. Don’t let your emotions take control of your decision making. You could even take a friend along to see what they think about the property.

Have another look

If need be, return to view the place afresh – you’ll be surprised at what you didn’t notice the first time around. Try visiting the property at a different time to see whether there is anything that happens that could make the place less attractive.

Check out the local area!

Don’t just focus on the property but make sure that you understand where the local shops are, where the transport facilities are and the schools and even what the general condition of the neighbourhood is like.

Use a professional

Finally, if you have any doubt, use the services of a professional -the money that you spend might be worth it in the end if you have concerns.