Buying a New Home? Read This First

Moving home can be a stressful time. In fact, it is often cited as one of the most stressful times in our life. After all, it is likely to be one of the biggest purchases you ever make.

If you plan carefully, you can avoid some of the worries and pitfalls. The experience then becomes much more manageable, and you may even enjoy it.

Can You Afford It?

Before starting down this path, it is worth considering whether you can afford to buy a new home. House prices can be unpredictable, and no-one can say with any accuracy which way the housing market will go over the next few years. Can you afford to take out a mortgage and buy your own home? What if the mortgage rates increase? Think carefully about this before making the jump.

It is also worth considering the extra costs you will have to pay. This includes mortgage fees, valuation fees, surveys, legal fees, taxes, moving costs, furniture, etc.

Check Out The Neighborhood

When considering areas, always check out the neighborhood. Drive around and visit some of the local places. Go on foot so you can walk around. Look at how well the houses and shops are maintained. Is there graffiti? Is there rubbish lying around? Look online for crime hotspots and find league tables for schools.

Check Out The Property’s Curb Appeal

Check out the curb appeal. If you find a place you like the look of, plan to drive or walk past before the viewing. Get any idea of the property from the outside. Is the garden well-maintained? Does the property look as though it has been looked after? Has it been painted recently? Do you spot any problem areas? Also, take a look at the surrounding properties to get an idea of the type of people who live there.

During Your Viewing

Your viewing is a good time to get a feel of the place. It will allow you to consider whether you could live there. Make sure you look out for the following issues:

• Damp – look for crumbling paint, watermarks, and moldy smells

• Obvious structural issues – look for large cracks

• Storage Space

• Room sizes – whether they are big enough for your needs

• Windows – notice the frames and glass

• Power points – check whether there are sufficient outlets for your needs

Make sure you ask lots of questions. Find out how long the property has been on the market and how many offers they have received. Find out whether there are any neighbor disputes. As the sellers why they are moving and whether there is a chain.

Call In The Experts

Always seek expert advice. A good home inspector will unearth issues you never thought of. They have lots of tools at their disposal. For example, thermal imaging cameras and aerial scanners. Always seek a professional view before you make your offer.

There’s a lot to think about when you’re moving house. As well as dealing with your new home, you also have to take care of your current property. Wherever possible, ask for expert help. This will ensure you know exactly what you’re buying. It will also help to put your mind at rest.