If you are looking to buy your first home, then make sure you ask all the right questions of your estate agent.
It will have an impact on whether the property is right for you and will also highlight if you will need to invest any money in the property once you’ve purchased it.
Here are some on the most important things to consider . . . .
- How long has the property been on the market?
If the property has been on the market for a long time, then ask the agent why. A seller may consider a lower offer.
- Is the property a leasehold or freehold?
Ask the estate agent if the property is a leasehold or freehold. If it is leasehold ask how many years are left on the lease.
What’s the local area like?
Ask about local amenities including supermarkets, restaurants, parks and about transport links.
- What is included in the sale?
The sales particulars may include some items the sellers will be leaving but if there is something in particular you like, they may be willing to include it in the sale or you could purchase it.
- Has there been any disputes with the neighbours?
Sellers are legally required to disclose any disputes with neighbours they may have had or which are currently ongoing.
What’s the broadband speed?
Ask the agent about the broadband speeds for the property, often some rural homes can have slower speeds.
- Is the boiler fully serviced?
Ask the agent how old the boiler is and if there are any issues with the heating and hot water systems. Ask if the boiler has been regularly serviced.
- How many other buyers are interested?
If the property is new to the market, ask how much interest there is in it and if there have been any offers. The agent won’t be able to tell you about the amount of each offer but they will be able to let you know about the amount of interest there has been in in the property.
