The REIQ recommends that when inspecting a property a buyer should:
- Conduct a thorough inspection of the property
- Make notes
- Read and understand the contract of sale
- Organise a building and pest inspection, once a contract has been signed.
Your notes will make it easier to compare properties and may include details such as the date and address, the price range, features of the property, a quick sketch of the floor plan, what you liked about the property and what you didn’t.
Reading and understanding the terms and conditions of the contract of sale for a property is also very important when looking to buy a property. A buyer should ask for a copy of the contract before they commence looking.
Inside the house:
- Check for signs of rising damp such as rotting carpet or mould on the walls or ceiling;
- Check the walls and ceilings for warping and cracks;
- Test all light switches;
- Test the water pressure in hot and cold taps and check to see that water drains well. Slow flowing water may indicate blocked drains.
Outside the house:
- Inspect the fences for stability and rot;
- Large trees around the house may have root systems that can cause structural problems;
- Check that the land’s water run-off drains away from the house;
- Water staining on the eaves may indicate damaged gutters;
- Look at the roof for broken tiles;
- If the property has a pool check the legality of its fencing via the local council. Pools in a community title schemes (unit or townhouse complex) are the responsibility of the body corporate.
