Buying a House? Read our Top 3 Reasons to Get a Home Survey
Whether you're a cash purchaser or getting a mortgage, a first time buyer or a seasoned investor, there's always a good reason to get your own Home Survey.
You might be a first time buyer, investor, downsizer or moving up the property ladder. Everyone has different knowledge, experience and expectations of property but there is one factor which is common amongst almost all buyers: it is likely to be one of the most expensive purchases of your life.
Consequently, it is important to know exactly what you are buying and a survey (such as an RICS Home Survey) can give you the information you need to decide whether or not this is the house for you. An RICS Home Survey provides significantly more information about the condition of the property than a mortgage valuation carried out by your bank and this means it should be an essential step in the buying process for both purchasers who are getting a mortgage as well as those who are paying cash.
We have put together our top three reasons for getting an RICS Home Survey before you commit to purchase.
1. Uncertainty
If you have never bought a house before or if you are buying a different type of property to the type you are used to there is a lot to learn. Do you know the difference between solid brick and cavity walls? Could you spot the signs of cavity wall tie failure? Are services likely to need upgrading in the near future? How can you tell if that stain is damp or condensation? Do you know which elements of the property could contain asbestos?
When you commission an RICS Home Survey, you are paying for the knowledge and experience we have gained from over 25,000 property inspections to help you make an informed decision.
2. Reassurance
Maybe you have bought similar houses in the past and feel you are aware of the likely issues with this particular one. Perhaps you have viewed your potential new home a few times and haven’t seen anything that concerns you. Or maybe you have noticed something in the property but don't think it is serious.
Even so, an RICS Home Survey carried out by an experienced and qualified professional can allow you to proceed with your purchase free from any nagging doubts.
3. Planning and budgeting
It’s an older house and it’s clear it needs work, but you have seen plenty of TV programmes and are pretty sure a new kitchen and bathroom and a lick of paint will do it, right? If you are not used to renovation projects it is essential that you get an RICS Home Survey so that you are aware of the extent of repairs and upgrading that are required and can form a detailed plan and budget prior to committing to purchase.
Or maybe you have spotted an older property that has been recently renovated. RICS Home Surveys are particularly useful in this instance to let you know to whether the renovation has been carried out to a good standard or if corners have been cut.
With prices starting from £300+VAT, an RICS Home Survey will give you the information you need to proceed with confidence. Contact us on 028 2502 2222 or info@mortonblair.com
31 January 2022