Questions to ask your estate agent
The majority of initial property searches are now being done online, using property portals such as Rightmove and Findaproperty, but you shouldn’t rely solely on these and forget your local estate agent!
Going to an estate agent for a face-to-face conversation about your property requirements and your price range is invaluable as they will get to know your face (not just your name) and will look out for suitable properties on your behalf as soon as they come onto the market.
Good estate agents are also a great source of information when you start to view your shortlisted properties. They should know the area and property details better than anyone and be on hand to answer any questions you may have, here are some of suggestions of things to ask them when viewing a property:
- What exactly is included in the sale of the property?
- Why is the seller selling the property?
- What council tax band is this property situated in?
- How long has the property been on the market?
- What is the sellers bottom price (what is the lowest they will accept)?
- Are there any plans for developments in this area? (Housing developments/large constructions etc)
- Have there ever been any neighbourhood disputes in the area?
- Has the property been altered in any way recently?
- How old is the property’s heating system? Does it need updating?
Your estate agent (if they are a good one) should be able to answer most of these questions or should at least be able to go away and find out. When it comes to the condition and suitability of the property that is up to you to investigate, you should look out for:
- Any visible damp or smell of damp
- Any cracks in the walls and ceilings
- The size of the rooms, are they big enough for your requirements?
- The amount of natural light the property gets, is it overlooked/overshadowed?
- Nearby properties and community spirit. Is the community a happy and friendly one?
- Nearby roads, how busy do they get and are there any parking restrictions?
- Any renovations/redecoration the property needs, how much and how much will it cost?
- And finally, does the property feel like it could be home?
Once you have found your dream home and you’ve put an offer in it is crucial you stay in touch with your estate agent as they will be key to overseeing a quick purchase of the property.
