As a first home buyer, it can be hard to know what to look for when inspecting a home. The whole process can become overwhelming when open homes are busy and swarming with potential buyers. Here are a few essential things you can look out for yourself when considering a home.
1. Stains on the walls and ceilings:
Check the walls and ceilings for stains. If there are stains on the walls or ceilings, this may indicate that the house has some issues; and it is not as watertight as it should be. Occasionally, there can be water damage in the walls, not to mention the toxic mould that could be lurking in the house. We always suggest that you get a builders report done if you are considering buying a house to avoid issues further done the track.
2. Smell:
Unpleasant smells, such as chemical smells, can indicate the house has been used as a methamphetamine (P) lab. If this is so, the house will require a meth test and potentially need to be decontaminated. Again, we recommend you get a meth test done if you are considering purchasing a home.
3. DIY
Doing-it-yourself is becoming increasingly popular. If something major looks out of place, like a clearly homemade bathroom etc, then it probably doesn't have building consent. This could cause trouble for you further on down the track with the local council, so enquire first about any suspicious additions or outbuildings; or just to be safe - get a LIM report.
4. Ask the Agent:
Real estate agents are obliged to inform you of any issues or problems with a property which they know about. At an open home, you are well within in your right to ask the agent for any sort of information about the home - especially if you have any concerns about anything. We are here to help, so if we cannot answer you on the spot, we will endeavour to find out for you.
Purchasing your first home is a huge and exciting undertaking! Make sure you cover yourself with thorough checking! If you have any more questions, give us a call!