Looking Inside the Property

When you've found a property that you like, you should make a close inspection of its condition. Does it have enough storage space, power points and light fittings? Is it in good condition, are the windows, roof and floorboards sound? If not, is it reflected in the price?

Go prepared with a tape measure, pen, and paper to write everything down, and to note any fixtures that the seller wants to either leave or sell. It may be useful to have rough measurements of your current accommodation for comparison, and sizes of any bulky furniture. You will need to consider the following points:

Is it Sound?

• Look for signs of subsidence, such as cracked walls and doors that stick or don't hang correctly.
• Does the property have a damp-proof course? Check for signs of damp or damp smells. Feel walls for moisture, which can be caused by condensation, and check windows for condensation. Damp is one of the most difficult and expensive problems to get rid of.
• Check the roof timbers for signs of damp, woodworm or other boring insects.
• If possible, visit an old property after a heavy rainfall, when any leaks in guttering or tiling should become obvious.
• How old is the piping (lead piping will need replacing) - and are the pipes and boiler insulated or lagged?
• Test the floorboards. If a floor is springy, it could mean that the joists are rotten.

Is it in Good Working Condition?

• How well is the house insulated? Is there cavity-wall insulation? Check the loft is well insulated - with the light off you shouldn't see any daylight.
• How old is the central heating system? Is it gas, oil or electric? Ask to see heating bills.
• Is there enough water pressure? Turn on a tap to check, on each storey.
• Have a good look at old plasterwork and if it looks unsound tap it - a hollow sound means that it will need replacing.
• Inspect the state of the decoration. Be wary of new paint or wallpaper, which may be hiding cracks or damp patches.

Is it Suitable?

• Is there room to expand? Would it be possible to get a loft conversion or build an extension? Even if you don't need it yourself, the capacity to expand always ads to the value of a property.
• Will the kitchen be suitable? If you're not planning to replace units, check whether there are enough work surfaces and that the utility area is big enough for your appliances - and any you may want to install in the future.
• Which way did the rooms face? When do they get the sun?
• Is there enough storage? If there are no built-in cupboards or wardrobes, you may need to install some or buy freestanding storage. Either way, it will reduce the size of the rooms.
• Is there space for your furniture? Is there enough space in the kitchen or dining room for the size of table you need? You might need to move radiators to make your furniture fit.
• Is access to the property or garden awkward? Might anyone need to get through the front or back door with a bike, pushchair, or wheelchair? Is access to the property and up the stairs generally easy for removals? Is it straightforward to get to the garden?