Don?t Rush Into Buying a Property

Purchasing a house is a huge financial commitment, but new research shows that the majority of buyers don?t take long enough to consider it.

A recent report commissioned by Ocean Finance found that one third of people only take around half an hour to choose their new home. Fewer than 50% of buyers have a second viewing, which is when many problems with a property can be picked up. These could include issues with damp, subsidence, noisy neighbours or a busy road, which could end up costing you more in the future.

It doesn?t matter how much you have to spend on your new property ? it?s still important to assess the purchase sufficiently. Whether you?re looking for an apartment with a wrought iron balcony or a four-bedroom family home, the advice on how to go about buying your property is still the same.

Do Your Research

Online is a good place to start searching for your new home. This allows you to see everything that?s available from the comfort of your own home. You can view exactly what properties are currently for sale and the local agents who deal with the type of houses you?re interested in. The sites allow you to search with particular specifications, such as number of bedrooms and bathrooms, and you can filter through the results according to your budget.

Using the internet you can also research the local area. This includes Ofsted results for local schools and the facilities that are available such as shops, restaurants, leisure amenities and transport links. With the increased risk of flooding, it?s also advisable to research the potential impact on the area and whether or not they?ve had any problems with flooding in the past.

Check the Area

Before you book a viewing, you should have a look at the local area for yourself. Drive around the neighbourhood and view the potential property from the outside. See if it looks attractive on the exterior, as this will give you an indication of the level of maintenance inside. Also have a look at the general area and the surrounding properties to ensure that they?re in keeping with the kind of neighbourhood you would like to live in.

Viewing the Property

When you view the house, have a look at the general level of upkeep and see if there is any evidence of major problems, including damp, condensation or poor property repairs. See if the layout of the property works for your family or if you will need to carry out any work. For instance, does the wrought iron balcony have adequate railings or will the downstairs bathroom be an issue? Have a look at fixtures and fittings to check the quality of the workmanship. Make sure you ask plenty of questions, especially regarding any repairs that have been done.

If after the first viewing you?re still interested, a second viewing is vital to have a more thorough look at the house. However long you intend to live in the property, it?s important you make the right decision and don?t rush into anything.