Buying a home is one of the most significant financial decisions you will make in your lifetime. It is important when you are searching and viewing properties that you find out everything you can about the property and the area in which it is located.
While this can be a time consuming task it is essential to remember that when you find the property that’s right for you not to act on impulse and jump right in. Finding out about the property and area before you put in an offer is as important as finding the right property.
Here are a few pointers to help you when viewing:
- If you are unfamiliar with an area, take as much time as possible to investigate it in order to ensure that your decision to buy is an informed one.
- View the area at different times of the day and night and at the weekends.
- Check out the local services and amenities available in the area, such as shops, restaurants, leisure centers’, hospitals, airports, beaches, parks, museums, public houses, theaters and churches solicitors, gardeners, plumbers, electricians… the list is endless.
- How far is the local school or college? If you have children this will be an important question when buying and moving to a new area. Find out as much as you can about the school / creche facilities available in the area.
- Transport information – transport is an important consideration before you buy. Check out the availability of public transport in the area. Your estate agent will also be able to inform you about the local bus routes, trains, roads and other transport links available in the area.
- If you drive, figure out the approximate time it will take you to drive to and from work.
- Check with the local authority if there are any future developments planned around or near where you would like to buy. New developments may have an effect on the local area, services and the value of your home.
- Check to see if the property is alarmed. Having a monitored alarm system can also reduce the cost of your home insurance. Monitored alarm systems provide the most effective form of home security, as alarm activations are immediately responded to by real people at a monitoring control centre and by the emergency services, if necessary.
- Think about the resale potential – If you wanted to sell your home how easy would it be to find a buyer?
- Stay focused on your budget. Along with the property price remember to consider all other costs such as closing costs, legal fees, home insurance, moving expenses etc. If the property you are viewing needs major repairs, renovation or redecoration, will you be able to afford it?
If you are thinking about buying or moving to a new area checkout the MyHome Local Area Guides which provide useful information on local areas. Search by Irish counties and refine by towns or areas. Find local information including amenities, maps, schools and transport links. You will also find property listings in your area including residential, rental and commercial properties for sale and to rent.
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