Ask the right questions to find the right property

With the latest news from the RICS that new buying enquiries soared last month, the housing market revival appears to be in full swing. As the competition heats up, potential home-owners are viewing a record of between 11 and 15 houses on average, before they find the right one. With people moving further afield and more houses coming on to the market, house hunters must be fully prepared if they want to save both time and expense.

Experts at property review site ReviewMyPad.co.uk are helping buyers to weed out the unsuitable properties, and have published the ultimate list of questions to ask the agent or vendor, helping you narrow your search for your dream home. A spokesperson from the newly-launched site, explains:

“It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of what the property looks like, but you need to be practical and sensible. You need to think about actually living there on a daily basis and how your life and your budget will be affected. Our online property reviews, posted by house-hunters, help other budding buyers to decide whether a house or neighbourhood is right for them. Furthermore, by asking the right questions of your agent or the vendor, you can focus your time and energy on properties that already tick a lot of your boxes.”

Top questions you should get the answers to:

1) Why are the owners selling?
This will provide valuable insight and negotiating power – if the owners need a quick sale they may be open to offers.

2) What’s included in the sale?
The vendor may take or leave behind some unexpected items, so make sure you’re not paying for something you don’t want, or don’t get.

3) What is the council tax band and how much is it?
If you’re moving to a new area, council tax rates may surprise you, so it’s useful to help with budgeting.

4) Any plans for future developments?
Particularly relevant if your potential new home is near unused land, or a building with the potential for demolition. Avoid any nasty surprises and do the research first.

5) Is there any planning permission on the property?
From conservatories to extensions, you may be pleasantly be surprised to find that the owners have already done the hard work and gained planning permission for future home modifications.

6) Who owns which boundaries, and are there any ongoing disputes?
This is a sensible, practical consideration that can save time and hassle later on

7) Which schools are nearby, and what are their catchments?
If you’re relocating and have children, this may factor highly in your decision-making.

8) What are the roads and transport links like?
Getting information about nearby train stations, bus stops, and traffic hot-spots can be valuable.

9) How energy efficient is the property?
Check the property’s Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), which provides an overview of the property’s energy efficiency, but also ask about cavity wall insulation, loft insulation and any other non-visible efficiency measures.

10) Does the estate agency work with a preferred solicitor?
Working with your estate agent’s solicitor may prove a more seamless process and push the sale through quicker, so it’s always worth getting a quote.

For more guidance on viewing and buying your next home, and to check out property reviews, or leave your own, visit reviewmypad.co.uk.