Buying a house is a big step. If you’re on the hunt for a new home, it’s natural to want to fall head over heels, but it’s important to use your head and your heart. You don’t want to move into your dream home to find that it’s harboring hazards or hidden problems. When you view properties, it’s always wise to be wary of red flags. Here are some common issues to look out for.
Damp
Damp is a very common problem, especially in older houses and in areas where rainfall is high. Damp occurs when moisture penetrates the outer shield of the home. It usually causes visible signs, including discolored patches on the ceilings and walls, bubbled paint and wallpaper and mold, as well as a musty smell. In many cases, damp can be treated, but if it’s left to develop, it can cause extensive damage, which is expensive to repair. If you do fall in love with a property that has signs of damp, it’s always beneficial to seek expert advice.
Pests
Nobody wants to share their new home with unexpected guests or unwelcome intruders. When you’re walking around homes and gardens, keep your eyes peeled for signs of a pest infestation. Listen out for scrabbling noises, inspect lofts and basements and check the condition of internal and external wooden structures. If you think there may be a problem, contact pest control experts and get some quotes. If you want to put an offer in on the house, you could negotiate with the vendor to cover the cost of removal or lower the price.
Roof damage
Replacing a roof can be expensive and a damaged roof can also carry risks of damage to the property. If the roof is missing tiles or slates, for example, there may be a leak in the attic or damp walls and ceilings inside the property.
Noisy neighbors
It can be difficult to get a sense of what the neighbors are like from a viewing, but it’s a good idea to try to find clues and visit at different times of the day. It’s worth having a good look around the neighborhood and viewing the house multiple times before you decide whether to go ahead and make an offer. Noise is a turn-off for many buyers.
Cracks
Cracks can be a cause for concern for buyers, but they’re not always as bad as they may look. Often, if you see small cracks in the walls, for example, this will be an example of cracked plasterwork, rather than a sign of structural problems. If there are large, deep cracks, which aren’t superficial, it’s critical to seek professional advice. Structural damage can be expensive to repair and it can lead to more issues down the line.
Buying a house is an exciting prospect, but it’s a huge decision and there’s a lot of pressure to make the right choice. If you’re looking for a new home, it’s essential to be mindful of red flags. Organize multiple viewings, inspect every part of the house carefully and seek expert advice if you have any concerns.
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