Buyers Checklist

Buying any type of property is one of the biggest decisions you will make. It deserves a lot of thought, and while there’s undoubtedly stress involved in the decision, ultimately the thinking you put into it will mean a successful, happy decision.

Below are some of the immediate considerations that Greenwood Property recommends you bear in mind. The list is not exhaustive, and you will no doubt have some of your own important points to add.

Ideal location Think about your work commute, the value of property in the area, proximity to family, parks, amenities.

Local schools This may not be a consideration at the time of purchase, but it may well be very important in five years’ time. Think of primary and secondary schools.

Neighbourhood Is this an area where you can feel at ease 24/7? It’s hard to judge from a visit or two, but these are your potential neighbours.

Transport links Important for school, work and general travel. Is the area well serviced?

Traffic volume Something that can become very important if you have kids. Consider too if you’re in the vicinity of a major traffic draw, such as a shopping centre or sports stadium. This can have a big effect on daily life at certain times.

Communal green areas An important part of neighbourhoods. Are they well maintained, useful for parents and children, or do they draw anti-social behaviour?

Garden Even in winter it’s important to have space. A garden becomes more important as families grow. It can also be hugely important if you keep a pet, and it adds to your home’s value. Alternatively you may not wish to spend the time and energy that a well kept garden needs.

Number of bedrooms Are you likely to need more rooms later? Can you envisage working from home, or perhaps renting a room? Make sure you have enough for your needs now and later if possible.

South facing The house aspect is also something that many people find hugely important. How much natural daylight does it get, and does it get it in the right places? The ideal aspect is southerly, thereby gaining most from the day’s sunshine.

Parking Do you need off-street parking? Is there sufficient room on the street? Will you be likely to need more parking later?

Your own hall door To some people it’s very important to have their own, to others less so. What are your preferences?

Ground floor Stairs don’t suit everybody, and a ground floor apartment needs to have all the advantages you’ll want and a minimum of drawbacks.

Terraced/detached/semi-detached house What is your ideal today ? Will it be ideal in a few years’ time?

Kitchen size important For some it is just a place to prepare food. For others it’s the beating heart of the house. Consider whether it’s suitable as is, or if it needs modernising.

Number of bathrooms Planning ahead, will you have enough for a family’s needs. Consider guests. Is there a potential to add en suite facilities?

Oil or gas Energy efficiency is extremely important, and set to become more so. Consider how much it will cost to heat the home you want, and how best to do it.

Potential to extend It may be something you want to do one day, or perhaps you’ll need to do it immediately. Is the property you purchase suitable for it?

Rental potential You may decide to rent out a room or two in the early year. Longer term you may rent the entire property out, or perhaps it’s an investment from the beginning. Consider the area that it’s in, whether keeping students or renting to professionals is likely to be successful.