Things to check first before buying a property
- Location controls
The neighbourhood you choose to live in will make a big difference to your happiness in your home.
- Location is key!
Proximity to shops, hospitals, public transport is crucial in the choice of housing, a factor that obviously determines the value of your home.
- Other considerations…
The construction of new roads or the proximity of factories, sanitation facilities, airports, etc. are obvious negative factors that must be known beforehand.
- Long term investment
Real estate is better when you’re invested in it, if you buy a house with the idea of renting it out, you may be able to generate a reliable income stream or create tax savings through negative gearing . What a rental investment.
- Building inspection
Before buying a home, do a thorough survey of the building by a licensed and insured professional.
Keep in mind that a building inspection report is different from a pest inspection report (although some companies can do both for you).
A home inspection is more expensive but worth its weight in gold. Here’s why :
- Structural solidity
An inspector will examine the structural integrity of the building and check for rising damp, sagging walls, faulty roofing, water damage, etc.
Identification of security issues
This assessment detects the presence of asbestos, cracks in the walls, loose railings and any other element that may present a danger to the occupants.
To watch closely:
Damp or mildew stains
New paint patches that may have been used to cover up a defect
Closing of doors and windows
Laundry and kitchen faucets
