When it comes to buying or renting a property, the viewing is a crucial step that can determine the success of your project. Whether you are a prospective buyer or a tenant, it is essential to know what to observe carefully during this visit to prevent unforeseen problems or costs. In this article, we offer you a checklist of items to verify to help you navigate the buying or renting process with confidence.
To assist you, download our complete checklist now. At AHRE, we are here to support you in this process and provide you with the necessary expertise to make informed decisions.
Why is a Property Viewing so Important?
Viewing a property is an opportunity to get a precise idea of the condition of the dwelling and its surroundings. It allows you to identify advantages and potential problems that may not be visible in the listing photos. Good preparation and close attention to certain details can help you avoid inconveniences and unforeseen costs after you move in.
What Items to Verify During your Viewing?
1. The general condition of the structure
During your first visit, start by checking the overall condition of the property’s structure. Observe the walls, floors, and roof. Look for cracks, deformations, or signs of subsidence. These elements can reveal underlying structural problems, requiring future repair work. Do not hesitate to ask questions about the age of the building and any recent work carried out.
2. Electrical and plumbing installations
A thorough inspection of electrical and plumbing installations is essential. Here, the items to check include the condition of outlets, switches, and pipes. Ensure that the electricity complies with standards and that the plumbing has no leaks. Ask if any updates have been made recently to ensure the safety and functionality of these systems.
3. The quality of insulation and windows
Insulation plays a crucial role in the thermal comfort and energy efficiency of your future home. Check the quality of the windows: are they double-glazed? Are there any noticeable drafts? Good insulation can save you money on your energy bills in the long run. If there is work to be planned, such as replacing windows or improving walls and roofs, this can represent a significant investment, but a profitable one in the long term.
4. Any signs of dampness or mold
Look for signs of dampness on the walls, ceilings, and floors. Damp stains, mold, or musty odors can be indicators of moisture problems that need to be addressed quickly. Do not hesitate to ask for information on the possible causes and solutions. These aspects can also impact your daily comfort and quality of life in the dwelling, so it is essential to pay attention to them.
5. Legal aspects and documents
It is crucial to ensure that the property complies with all current legal standards. During the viewing of your future home, check the compliance of real estate diagnostics, such as the energy performance diagnosis (DPE), lead diagnosis, or asbestos diagnosis. Also inquire about the presence of building permits and any easements that could affect your property.
Before committing, it is crucial to check the legal documents related to the property. Here is a list of items to request and examine:
- EPC (Energy Performance Certificate): Check the property’s energy class and recommendations for improving it.
- Urban Planning Information (RU): Ensure there are no infringements. If irregularities exist, be aware of the implications before purchase.
- Minutes of general meetings (for co-owned buildings): Consult the last 2 or 3 minutes to learn about work carried out or planned, as well as the general management of the co-ownership.
- Check the electrical certificate: if it complies, everything is in order. However, if it does not comply, be aware that it will need to be brought up to standard within 18 months of the purchase deed.
- Service charge statements: Analyze the monthly or quarterly charges to understand the costs associated with the property (gas, electricity, water, common areas).
6. The boiler and heating
The heating system is a key part of your comfort, especially in winter. Check:
- The general condition of the boiler (age, recent maintenance, efficiency).
- The type of radiator (central, electric, gas, etc.). This directly influences energy consumption and thermal comfort.
- The availability and quality of hot water. Also inquire about the quality and availability of hot water, as an outdated system could incur additional costs.
An outdated or poorly maintained system can incur significant additional costs.
7. Good maintenance and management of the co-ownership
An essential aspect to consider when purchasing a co-owned property is its management and upkeep. A well-managed co-ownership contributes not only to the value of your property but also to your quality of life. Here are some points to verify:
- Financial management: Consult the co-ownership accounts to ensure it is in good financial health, without significant debts or unforeseen expenses.
- Regular maintenance: Inquire about the frequency of maintenance work and renovations carried out in the common areas. Regular maintenance is a sign of proactive management.
- Meetings and communication: Inquire about the frequency of general meetings and the transparency of decisions made. Good communication between co-owners and the property manager is essential for the smooth functioning of the co-ownership.
- Co-ownership regulations: Read the co-ownership regulations carefully to understand your rights and obligations, as well as the rules of community living.
How to Avoid Unpleasant Surprises when Buying?
Buying a property is a major decision that requires particular vigilance to avoid any unpleasant surprises. Here are some crucial steps to guide you through this process and ensure your investment is sound.
To consult all items to verify, download our checklist.
Conduct a Thorough Inspection
Before making a purchase decision, it is crucial to conduct a thorough inspection of the property. This includes examining the property’s general condition, checking each room, as well as exterior components such as the roof, walls, and garden. A thorough inspection can help you identify potential issues, such as hidden defects, which could lead to significant costs later on.
Identify Work to be Carried Out
During your visit, take note of the work to be carried out. This may include necessary renovations or urgent repairs. Evaluate this work in terms of cost and time, and ask if the owner has obtained quotes or estimates for this work. This will give you a clear vision of the additional investments the property will require.
Request a Technical Audit
To rule out additional costs, it is recommended to request a technical audit of the property. This audit can be carried out by a professional who will assess the entire property, including electrical installations, plumbing, and insulation. Such a report will provide you with an overview of the property’s condition and alert you to possible work to be planned.
What Questions to Ask During a Viewing?
During viewings, it is crucial to prepare a checklist of essential questions to ask the owner or the real estate agent. These questions will help you gather valuable information to thoroughly assess the property and prevent unpleasant surprises. Here are some important points to address to guide you through this step:
- Building age and recent work: Ask about the age of the construction and when the last work was carried out. This information is crucial for understanding the building’s condition and anticipating any future renovations.
- Known problems: Inquire about any potential problems, whether structural defects, issues related to the electrical installation, plumbing, or other fundamental aspects of the dwelling. This may include leaks, infiltrations, or equipment anomalies.
- Monthly charges and recurring fees: Ask for the amount of monthly or annual charges, including co-ownership or maintenance fees. This data will help you plan your long-term budget.
- Check if security devices are installed, such as alarms or surveillance systems. Do not hesitate to inquire about the history of security in the neighborhood and the relationship with neighbors, as this contributes to your peace of mind.
- Development or planning projects: Inquire about future projects in the neighborhood, such as new constructions, the addition of services, or changes to the urban plan. These components can influence the property’s value and the quality of life in the long term.
By asking these essential questions to the real estate agent or owner, you will be better prepared to evaluate the property and its surroundings. Good communication and a comprehensive checklist will allow you to make an informed decision with confidence.
To get our complete checklist and ensure you don’t forget anything during your property viewing, you can download our PDF.
Do not forget to check the legal documents, such as the preliminary sales agreement, to avoid any ambiguity. Inquire about notary fees and other associated costs to get an overview of the total expenses. Finally, it is also important to inquire about the home insurance that will best suit your situation.
Conclusion
Viewing a property without preparation can lead to unpleasant setbacks that could prove costly later on. By following this checklist of points to verify, you will be better equipped to make an informed decision. At AHRE, we understand the importance of this step and are here to support you throughout your buying or renting journey. Our team of experts offers you a guided viewing, helping you identify critical points and ask the right questions. Do not hesitate to contact us to benefit from our expertise and make your real estate project a success.
