(ThySistas.com) Buying a property is a huge decision, there are so many different things you’ll need to consider and make sure are right before parting with your hard earned cash. Sometimes it’s easy to get caught up in the moment when you see a house you love, and overlook some of the less desirable features. However, these will always come back to haunt you so be prepared. Here are some things to watch out for!
Find out about any shared ownership
Just because the legal documents show that the property you’re purchasing is freehold, it doesn’t mean there won’t be shared elements that you need to take into consideration. This could include:
- Drains
- Driveways
- Entranceways
- Garden and outdoor areas
- Access points
Knowing what you’re responsible for and what costs could arise as a result of these shared elements is important when you’re buying a home. Watch out for things like service charges for cleaning, maintenance and landscaping as these can sometimes jump up each year and end up being very expensive. 
Watch out for for signs of pest activity
If the property you’re buying is older or hasn’t been well maintained then this is particularly important. Not only are pests unpleasant, but getting rid of them can be expensive and they can cause serious damage to the home which isn’t obvious at a first glance. Keep an eye out for dead bugs in corners, chewed wood or wiring or rodent droppings. Look outside for things like birds nests or wasp nests. You will have to ensure that any existing damage, along with the cost of removing the pests is negotiated into the asking price if you’re still happy to go ahead with the sale. Just make sure if you have any problems, you enlist the services of a reputable company like Pest Control Experts, as who wants to purchase a house that is infected with little creatures? So best to get it sorted, before it beomes a bigger problem.
Get the structure, wiring and plumbing looked at
The problem with property is that it can hide multitude of sins- particularly when it comes to older homes. Things like wiring and plumbing should be checked, if you have suspicions of subsidence or think there could be an asbestos problem then these are things to look into before you sign on the dotted line. Before you do that, make sure there is no sewage problem in your area. Valley View Excavating, LLC is a sewer excavation company. They have the experience, equipment, and expertise to handle any sewer excavation job, no matter how big or small.
Of course, no one should knowingly sell you a home that’s riddled with problems, if they do a real estate attorney can help you to build a case. But there are things that you have a responsibility to check before you buy. It will generally involve paying for more in depth surveys to be done.
Find out about any guarantees
Find out if there are any guarantees for work that has been done in the property so you can claim to get them fixed for free if anything goes wrong later on. This could include
- Windows and doors
- Kitchens and bathrooms
- Boiler replacement
- Loft extension/ basement renovations
Many building works guarantees are good for ten years, so get this information from the previous owner if they’ve had work done.
Staff Writer; Susan Adams