Handy Hints For Buyers

HINTS FOR PROPERTY BUYERS

CHECK THE LOCATION
• Does the area have, or will it have, all amenities you might need (e.g. shops, schools and transport)?
• Is it zoned residential?
• Is the electricity connected?
• Is the sewer connected?
• Is it free from road widening proposals?

LAND
• Is it free from landfill, loose boulders, excess seepage of water, steep grading, or are there dense trees? If you are considering extensions an engineer’s report may be necessary to assess the block.
• Is it free from landslip? Check with your local council and if necessary obtain a geo-technical engineers report.

BUILDING
• Is it paintwork in good condition?
• Is the building free from dampness?
• Signs of dampness, especially rising dampness, are usually found around window sills, chimney breasts, on ceilings and under floor coverings.
• Are the walls free from structural cracks both inside and outside?
• Is the roof, gutter and downpipes in good condition?
• Is the floor level and in sound condition? Are timber floors free from springs?
• Is the plaster in good condition?
• Check behind furniture
• Is the size and type of hot water service suitable? Will it be large enough for future needs?
• Is the house insulated?
• Does the house have good natural lighting and ventilation?
• Do the windows and doors open and close properly?
• Are there flyscreens?
• Turn on all taps to check for water pressure and water hammer
• Does water in sinks and basins drain away quickly?
• Check the number of power points. Are they suitably located?
• Are air-conditioning or heating appliances included in the price? Are they in good condition? Are they paid for?
• Is the telephone connected?
• Will the house be expensive to maintain?
• Are paths and fences in good condition?
• If there is a pool, does the fencing comply with safety standard regulations?
• Is there are garage or carport?
• Are there storage facilities?
• Is it possible to extend the house for future needs?
• Has the house already been added to?
• Were these extensions approved by council?
• What exactly is included in the price? Floor coverings, blinds, washing machine, light fittings? Are they fully paid for and what is there condition?
• Will your furniture fit in the house? Are doorways and passageways wide enough to move furniture though? Is access easy?

BEDROOMS
• Will the bedrooms be affected by noise and light factors? (e.g. nearness to an intersection may cause problems with traffic lights, headlights from passing cars, screeching brakes. If the house is on a hill, trucks changing gears can create noise)
• Are the bedrooms located in a position that is reasonably free from living area noise?
• Is there sufficient ventilation?
• Will the bedrooms be cool in summer?
• Will your furniture fit?
• Are wardrobes included in the price?

BATHROOM AND TOILET
• Is there sufficient ventilation?
• Is there a fan to extract steam?
• Is the shower recess free from leaks? Test to see if water leaks through or under the screen.
• Is there a power point?
• Is the toilet in good condition?
• Is hot water connected?
• Are there mirrors, cupboards, towel rails?
• Is there heating?

LOUNGE ROOM
• Will my furniture fit? (e.g. stereo, lounge, TV, chairs, table, piano?
• Is there a TV antenna outlet?
• Is there a heater or air-conditioner included in the price? Is it gas, electrical or oil? Will it be expensive to run? Is it paid for?

LAUNDRY
• Is the water connected?
• Can your automatic washing machine be installed without any problems?
• Are there any power points?
• Is there room for a dryer?
• Is there a floor waste (drain) or is the floor sufficiently graded so that any overflow water can escape without causing damage?

KITCHEN
• Are there sufficient cupboards for storage and bench space for preparing and serving food?
• Do the cupboards open and shut properly? Is there room for additional cupboards?
• Condition of the stove. Is it large enough? Is there an exhaust fan? Do they work properly? Test.
• Is there adequate lighting, both natural and artificial?
• Will the refrigerator fit? Is there room for a dishwasher and microwave?
• Is there sufficient ventilation?

DINING ROOM
• Will your furniture fit? Is there room for an extended dining table?
• Is the kitchen close enough to serve food easily?
• Are there power points?
• Is the lighting adequate?