Given how big an investment buying your first home is, you’ll want to make sure you get it right the first time of asking. To avoid making a decision you live to regret, knowing what questions to ask at your house viewing could save you from buying a home with loads of hidden problems.
Don't know where to start? We’ve rounded up some of the best questions you have to ask when buying your home:
1. How much is the home?
If you are looking to buy a house in the UK for the first time, first comes the big question of whether you have the means to pay for it. Asking how much the house costs is one of the first questions to ask when buying a house and will help you budget for your monthly mortgage payments.
You might think working out your house price is as simple as reading the initial asking price, but you should also be prepared for the added costs of home buying. Whatever you do, make sure you know all of the costs involved so you don’t get caught out by an unexpected payment.
Cost of buying a Shared Ownership home
2. What is included in the sale?
Now you know how much your home costs, you'll want to work out exactly what you're getting for your money. In many cases, buying a home comes with perks or add-ons to draw you in. If there is a greenhouse, a fancy vacuum cleaner or a washing machine you have your eye on, it’s well worth knowing if it’s yours for the taking.
3. Why is the owner selling?
Depending on who you are asking (the estate agent or the owner), you can try and find out the circumstances behind the sale. It could simply be that the owner is moving town or is looking for an apartment upgrade but look out for red flags. Is the new home located right next to a noisy airport or train station? If the property is taking ages to sell, it might be for a good reason.
4. Which way does the property face?
Where does the sun fall on your property? If you like to wake up to the morning sunshine, make sure you’ve worked out how much exposure you’ll get to the sun in your new place. A south-facing house usually gets the most natural light but be sure to ask.
5. Are there any local amenities nearby?
This is a question that you can ask an estate agent or owner, but also anyone in the neighbourhood. By doing this, you can get an unbiased view of what the area is like, and what amenities are nearby. A supermarket located just 5 minutes away can make a big difference in making your life easier, while a local transport link will shave a lot of time off your commute to work. If you are renting with kids, you may also want to ensure there are some good schools nearby.
6. What are the neighbours like?
You may have found a perfect home, but noisy neighbours can turn your dream home into a living nightmare. This is one of the best questions to ask when buying a home from an owner. Be sure to ask about who your neighbours are, what time they work, and if they have a passion for late-night parties. If you are someone who needs to wake up early for work, living next door to a group of party animals could be a deal breaker.
7. When was the boiler last serviced?
The best way to avoid an emergency is to find out if there are any problem areas in your new home. Finding out you have a faulty boiler could end in disaster, so checking when the boiler was last serviced is one of the most crucial things to ask when buying a house. If your boiler is on its last legs, you should ask your landlord to get it serviced before you sign any agreements.
8. What is the structural condition of the property?
When buying a home, understanding its structural integrity is crucial. A seemingly perfect property could be hiding serious issues that might cost you thousands in repairs. Look out for signs of structural damage, and don't be afraid to ask about the property's condition. Has the building undergone recent surveys? Are there any visible signs of dampness or foundation problems? These questions can help you avoid purchasing a property with hidden structural challenges that could turn your dream home into a costly nightmare.
9. How energy efficient is the home?
Energy efficiency isn't just an environmental concern – it's a financial one too. An energy-inefficient home can drain your wallet through high utility bills. Ask to see the property's Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) and find out about its current rating. Look for features like double glazing, insulation, or solar panels that could save you money in the long run. Understanding the home's energy performance can help you budget for future running costs and potentially avoid unexpected expense.
10. What future developments are planned in the area?
The neighbourhood you're moving into today might look very different tomorrow. Asking about planned developments can give you crucial insights into your potential new home's future. Are there any upcoming construction projects? What are the local planning permissions? Understanding the area's development plans can help you assess how these might impact your property's value and your quality of life. A seemingly perfect location could change dramatically with upcoming infrastructure or residential developments.
11. What legal considerations should I be aware of?
Buying a home isn't just about the physical property – it's also about navigating a complex legal landscape. Dig deeper into the property's legal status by asking about its ownership history, any existing disputes, or potential restrictions. Are there any covenants or easements that could affect your ownership? Understanding these legal nuances can save you from potential headaches down the line and ensure a smooth property purchase.
12. What additional costs should I expect?
The purchase price is just the beginning when it comes to home ownership. Beyond the initial cost, you'll want to understand the full financial commitment. Ask about estimated insurance costs, service charges, and typical maintenance expenses. Are there any upcoming major repairs or renovations? Getting a clear picture of these additional costs can help you budget effectively and avoid financial surprises after moving in.
If you feel like you are overloading the seller with home-buying questions, just remember that you are under no obligation to buy a home until you know what you are getting into, so until you do, ask away!
