QUESTIONS TO ASK ABOUT BUYING A PROPERTY

Use this list of questions so you can find out about the Seller's situation.

1. How long have they lived in the property? (If they have lived there for a long time, they are less likely to be moving because there are problems, e.g, neighbours)

2. Why are the vendors moving?

3. Have they already found somewhere to buy? Is it a long chain?

4. How long has the property been on the market?

5. What are the neighbours like?

6. What the school catchment area is?

7. Where is public transport close by?

8. How quickly are they hoping for the sale to go through? Make sure their plan matches yours as this can save problems later on.

These list of questions are specific to the inside of the property you are thinking of buying:

1. Heating - is it gas/ electric?

2. How old is the boiler?

3. Are the electrics up to date?

4. Is the property freehold or leasehold? (Particularly important for London)

5. If the property is leasehold - how long is the lease?

6. Is there a service charge ? How much? What does this cover?

7. How much is the Council Tax?

8. What is the vendor including in the sale (built-in oven, fridge, curtains, etc.?)

9. Is there access to a garden?

10. Is there a lot of work (and cost!) involved in bringing the property up to date? Can the cost of any repairs be added to the mortgage? Ask 1st Call 4 Mortgages on 08458 386938.