Traversing the housing market in search of a new home is both exciting and daunting. The wonder of finding a property, one that fulfils the wants and needs of an ideal home, is duly balanced with risk. While most sellers and agents act with transparency, there is a certain degree of responsibility that falls upon the buyer’s shoulders. If this isn’t enacted, a buyer might find themselves unhappy down the line.

For a significant number of buyers, however, the property they view is a contender to become the first home they ever buy. This naivety toward property ownership means that certain issues may not be spotted when inspecting a property and, while legal and structural checks can certainly prevent major issues regarding value and property safety, there is a likelihood that other issues will slip through the cracks.

Moisture

One of the most pervasive issues or property, within the UK especially, is damp. There are certain telltale signs that a buyer should look out for, such as bubbling or flaking paint, discolouration, and wet walls. However, many sellers will freshen their homes with paint, meaning that these issues are often masked. When viewing a property, if there is any suspicion at all, it is recommended to call a surveyor and specifically request an investigation.

Garden

Gardens have become one of the most sought after assets of a property. While they can certainly have significant benefits for a homeowner, they can also cause a number of problems if not maintained or repaired.

Flooding can be an issue, as well as the invasion of weeds. Some properties will also include external buildings such as log cabins for sale. These outbuildings are remarkably useful but should be scrutinised to ensure they can meet the different needs of those buying the property.

Insulation

Heating a home is becoming increasingly expensive and something as simple as overlooking the cracks around a window can lead to poor insulation and increased utility bills. Be sure to check for draughts in a home, those extending from windows and doors. They can help to reveal potential problems down the line.

Roofing

Due to their exposure, roofs have a limited lifespan and require somewhat costly maintenance every decade or so. If a roof has been left in poor condition, it will not only cost more to repair but it may also cause damage to the inside of a property too. Be sure to investigate the structural integrity of a roof, both inside and out, to check that it has been properly installed and continues to function, preventing, most importantly, leaks.

Plumbing

The plumbing of a home affects a number of property assets. If pipes or a boiler are neglected, energy bills will rise and a property may fall into disrepair. Inspect the water pressure of all taps, ignite the central boiler, and be sure to switch on all radiators. This should give you a good idea of the home’s efficiency and, as a result, the quality of its plumbing.