First Time Nerves

advise for first time buyers

Inside the property

When looking inside the property, here are some things to consider:

Heating

• If the property has central heating, find out when it was fitted and whether it is still under warranty.
• Ask the seller how the water is heated and whether the property has a combination boiler or a hot water tank.
• Find out if there have been any problems with the boiler and when it was last serviced by a Corgi registered engineer.
• Find out if the loft is fully insulated and if possible, to what thickness (if you turn off the light you shouldn’t be able to see daylight).
• Ask the seller if the property has cavity wall insulation, when it was fitted and whether it is under warranty.

Rooms

• Confirm with the seller which room features are included in the sale.
• Look for any major cracks in the walls or doors which stick, as both may be signs of subsidence.
• Feel the walls for dampness and check if the wallpaper or paint is discoloured or peeling.
• If the room has been recently decorated, consider what problems may lie underneath the new paint.
• If the frames have cracking paint, they may have been affected by damp (you can press your finger easily into rotten wood).
• Check the quantity of storage space for your needs.
• If the rooms are an unusual size or shape, consider if your existing furniture will fit.
• Look to see if there is a sufficient number of power points and whether they look safely wired.
• Don’t be put off by internal decoration. You can change this.

Kitchen/Bathroom

• Confirm with the seller which appliances and features are included in the sale.
• Turn the taps on fully to gauge the water pressure and see how long it takes for the hot water to come through.
• If there is an electric shower, find out when it was fitted and whether it includes a pump to boost water pressure.
• Consider if there is space or existing drainage to add extra appliances, such as a dishwasher.
• Consider whether there is sufficient ventilation.