I admit it. I am a shoe-aholic. I love nothing better than browsing the internet for my next purchase. Those exciting feelings you get when you press the buy button and the shoes are in the basket. One click of the button and those shoes will be on my feet in no time. But just before I click the buy button, and all my dreams come true, the voice of reason creeps up behind me and says "Do you really need them? Have we got space for them?" and the big one "Can we really afford them?". That voice is sadly my husband who shares neither my love nor passion for shoes. Now clearly in my world the answer to all of his questions are "YES" and "YES" but actually these are definately things that i should consider before jumping into my next purchase. With 15 plus years in Estate Agency let me be your voice of reason. Here is my simple guide of things you should consider before making an offer on your next property purchase.
Pick your viewing times carefully
You should aim to view any property in the hours of daylight. Artificial lighting can mask issues and leave dark spots which hide those little nasties, such as cracks, damp spots and poor maintainance. View at busy times so you can assess things such as parking, road noise etc.
Take your time
Don't feel rushed around a property. This will be the biggest purchase of your life and you need to see exactly what you are buying.
Ask questions
Don't be scared to ask questions. Think of all the questions you would ask a car salesman if you were buying a car. This purchase is far bigger than a car purchase. The only stupid question is the one you do not ask. You may want to ask how long have the current occupants lived there?, Why are they moving?, What are the neighbours like?
Think outside the box
So you love the house but don't forget the little things, parking for both cars, parking restrictions, space for your beloved furniture, local amenities and travel links.
Can you afford it?
You love the house but be realistic. Can you afford it ? Have you got a mortgage in principle agreed to the right amount ? It is un ethical to offer on a property you know that there is no chance of you ever affording. Make a realistic affordable offer.
View, walk away, talk then offer
I always recommended walking away after a viewing any property and considering all of the above. Sometimes we can get caught up in the emotion and dream of a new home only to realise perhaps its not for you. Take time to re access and talk about the property before your offer takes some of the emotion out of purchase meaning you offer with your head not your heart.
Arrange a second viewing prior to exchange
Prior to exchanging contracts you should always arrange a second viewing. Many weeks can pass from offer to exchange and in that time the condition of a property can change. You wouldn't want to walk into any nasty surprises.
If you are looking to buy a property in Water Orton, Castle Bromwich, Coleshill, Curdworth, Marston Green, Sheldon, Chelmsley Wood, Hodge Hill, Shard End, Kitts Green or surrounding areas then please give us a call and register your details to be notified of our new properties coming to market. We are a new and expanding business with new properties coming to market every month.
