Buying a property is probably the most expensive outlay you’ll ever make, and unlike other things you buy, there is no immediate return option if you don’t like it!

While we like to think the ‘perfect property’ is out there, generally no property is perfect; whether you’re viewing a property for a home or an investment, there will almost always be something which doesn’t tick a box.

So, the key to buying your ‘perfect property’ is knowing what to look for and what questions to ask; that way, you can make an informed decision about making an offer or walking away.

Here is a quick guide of what to do when to viewing a property:

Make a tick list of what to look for

Generally, a viewing time slot is around half an hour, and it’s easy to forget to look at things, particularly if you really like the property. So come prepared with a tick list of what to look for. As you go round the property, make sure you write down what you like, and what you don’t like/isn’t right for you – that way you can decide if the ‘cons outweigh the pros’ and you need to walk away, and/or factor in the cost of any renovations/maintenance you may need to make should you want to make an offer.

This list will help with making the essential tick list:

• Structural checks

Walk around the outside of the house to check the exterior. Points to look for will be signs of damp and hairline cracks in the walls, missing or loose tiles on the roof and broken guttering. If there are signs of a problem, ask what the cause is and whether it will be fixed.

• Internal checks

As you walk round each room, these are some of the points you need to look at:

– Electrics: Check for exposed wires, age of the fuse box and turn the lights on and off. Look to see how many power sockets are there and whether they are conveniently located.

– Plumbing: Ask about the hot water system and check the taps. Do the taps work? How long does it take for hot water to come through, and how strong is the water pressure in the shower?

– Maintenance: If there are cracks in the walls/ceiling, are any big enough to put the edge of a 10 cent coin in? If so, there could be a major problem. Look at the flooring condition and also for signs of damp/mould/condensation; even if you can’t see any, can you smell it? Common cover-ups include painting over damp and hiding wall cracks or floor problems with pictures, furniture or rugs.

– Lifestyle: What’s the decor like, both style and condition-wise? Is there any storage? If there are fireplaces, do they work? Also check to see if you’re overlooked by neighbouring properties.

– Windows and doors: Ideally windows and doors will open and close easily. Look closely at frames and fly screens. Where there are window locks, check to see if there are keys.

Make a second viewing

Ask if you can have a second viewing, or whether there is a second open viewing. The more times you view a house, the more likely you are to spot potential problems. And ideally, arrange for second viewing at a different time; that quiet, idyllic street you saw at 11am may well turn into a busy thoroughfare when its school pick up!

In the same vein, spend at least half an hour exploring the general area and getting a feel as to how close amenities are, such as cafes, schools, transport links or local shops, are. Also revisit at rush hour and when the pubs close, and on weekends and weekdays.

Quell the emotions

Don’t let your heart rule your head! Whether it’s for an investment or for a home, look for the flaws and consider the costs to make it right. The last thing you want to do is to find yourself owning the ‘dream property’ and then discovering it’s a massive money pit.

Common questions to ask

• How old is the property?
• Have the previous owners had any disputes with the neighbours?
• Why are the owners selling?
• Is there any proof of prior renovation approvals?
• Are any developments planned for the area?
• Are there any energy saving systems in place and what does it cost to run?

Virtual tours

If you can’t visit or get into the property for whatever reason, virtual tours do make a good substitute, if filmed properly.

Our beautifully presented 360 virtual tours are a massive point of difference and if you’re thinking of selling, they make sure your property is top of the list for the target buyer.

If you are keen to make an offer, make it subject to an independent house survey done by professionals who may uncover hidden issues, such as termites or structural problems. Paying a specialist for searches may also reveal other issues, such as easements on the land.

As a family run business, our aim is to make your property experience exceptional. If you want to know more about what you need to consider when selling a property, preparing your house for sale, or would like a free, no obligation quote, drop into the Cardiff office or give us a call on 02 4954 8833. Or send us an email to: mail@apnewcastle.com.au – we’d love to hear from you.

Don’t forget to check out our Facebook page for handy tips on selling your property or what to look for when buying a property.