8 Important Things to Check Before Buying a Property

Buying a property, or even renting one, is a big decision. Usually, you will try to find a house that satisfies your basic needs. That includes size, location, and, of course, price. However, there are many other factors that people tend to forget. Things that can affect your new life negatively if you fail to notice them. Sometimes, we are too excited at finding our dream home that we are blinded to the property’s endless problems.

Always remember that when buying a new home, you need to use both your logic and emotions. If there is a problem, try to come up with a solution. However, if the problem is too costly, then reconsider your decision and weigh your options. Here are 8 things you have to check before buying a property.

Sunlight Conditions

You may have visited an apartment midday and found it to be cheerful, sunny, and bright. However, this doesn’t mean that the whole unit lets sunlight in throughout the day. Try to visit the property at different times of the day and pay attention to every area. Although you may not care about sunlight in the guest bedroom, it is very much needed. Walk through the entire property to make sure that all, or at least most, of the rooms have access to direct sunlight.

Cellphone Reception

Another factor that may slip your mind is cell phone reception. Once again, you should walk around the property to determine if there are areas with little to no reception. You should also try to make a call in different parts of the property. If there is a problem with the reception, talk to the neighbors to determine if this is an issue with the area and discuss possible solutions. Afterall, living in a home without being able to use your phone can easily turn into a nightmare.

Water Pressure

You should always check water pressure before buying a property. Try the kitchen and bathroom sinks, as well as the shower. Low water pressure is hard to deal with, especially if you find out after you have moved in. If there are problems with the pressure, make sure there is a solution to the problem before closing the deal.

Neighborhood Noise

This is extremely important to keep in mind. Some neighborhoods are too quiet, others are too loud, and you need to know exactly what you’re buying into. Neighbor’s pets, construction work, even loud neighbors can make your life hard. It is best to visit the property at different times of the day, including at night, to figure out if external noise will be an issue. Also, try to visit on weekdays and the weekend.

Bathroom Ceilings

How often do you walk into a bathroom and look up? If you don’t, you probably should. If you are buying a unit in an apartment building, then check all bathroom ceilings for water damage. Any water damage will be noticeable right away and should be discussed before making the purchase. Do not ignore this issue if it is present as it will become a hassle for you later on.

Door and Window Seal

Properly sealed doors and windows will protect you from external heat and cold. Moreover, they have a direct effect on your electricity bills. Make sure that the property’s doors and windows are sealed and insulated. If not, talk to the previous owner or agent about the possibility of having them sealed before you move in. Although this may seem like a trivial issue that can be fixed right away, it may in some case, be very costly.

The Neighbors

Although you may never form a relationship with the neighbors or see them often, you should still meet them. Having good neighbors is always a positive when buying a property. On the other hand, having unfriendly or noisy neighbors may make you regret your decision. That is why it is best to find out for yourself who you will be running into once you move in. Meet the surrounding neighbors and decide for yourself if the area is right for you.

Safety and Security 

If you are buying a property in a gated community, this should not be an issue. If you are not, however, then you should check the neighborhood’s overall safety measures. You can even check crime rates in your area. In case of emergencies, can you reach someone right away or is our closest neighbor a 15-minute drive away? Putting this in mind before making a purchase is crucial as it will affect your new life.