Hints For Buyers

CHECK THE LOCATION

• Does the area have, or will it have, all amenities you might need (shops, schools, transport)?
• Is it zoned residential?
• Is the electricity connected?
• Is the sewer connected?
• Is it free from road widening proposals?

BUILDINGS

• Is the plasterwork in good condition?
• Is the building free of damp?
• Signs of damp, especially rising damp, are usually found around window sills, chimney breasts, on ceiling and under floor coverings
• Are the walls free from cracks, both inside and outside?
• Are the roofing, guttering and downpipes in good condition?  Are timber floors free from springs?  Are conrete floors free from cracks?
• Is the plasterwork in good condition?
• check behind furniture
• Is the size and type of hot water services suitable?  Will it be large enough for future needs?
• Is the house insulated, both ceilings and walls?
• Does the house have good natural lighting and ventilation in all rooms?
• Do the windows and doors open and close properly?
• Are there any flyscreens?
• Turn on all taps to check the water pressure and water hammer
• Does water in sinks and basins drain away quickly?
• Check the number of power points.  Are they suitably located?
• Are the air-conditioning or heating appliances included in the price?  Are they in good condition?  Are they paid for?
• Is the telephone connected?
• Will the house be expensive to maintain?
• Are paths and fences in good condition?
• If ther is a pool, does the fencing comply with safety regulations?
• Is there a garage or carport?
• Are there storage facilities?
• Is it possible to extend the house for future needs?
• Has the house already been added to ?
• were these extensions approved by council?
• What exactly is included in the price?  Floor coverings, blinds, washing machine, light fittings?  Are they fully paid for and what is their condition?
• Will your furniture fit in the house?  Are the doorways and passageways wide enough to move furniture through?  Is access easy?

BEDROOMS

• Will the bedrooms be affected by noise and light factors? 
• Are the bedrooms located so that they are reasonably free from living area noise?
• Is there sufficient ventilation?  Will the bedrooms be cool in summer?
• Will your furniture fit?
• Are wardrobes included in the price?

 BATHROOM AND TOLIET

• Is there sufficient ventilation?
• Is there a fan to extract steam?
• Is the shower recess free from leaks?  Test to see if water leaks through or under the screen
• Is there a power point?
• Is the toilet in good condition?
• Is hot water connected?
• Are there mirrors, cupboards, towel rails?

KITCHEN

• Are there sufficient cupboards for storage, and bench space for preparing and serving food?
• Do the cupboards open and shut properly?
• Condition of the stove.  Is it large enough?  Is there an exhaust fan?  Do they work properly?  Test
• Is there adequate lighting, both natural and artificial?
• Will the refridgerator fit?  Is there room for a dishwasher and microwave?
• Is there sufficient ventilation?

DINING ROOM

• Will your furniture fit?  Is there room for an extended dining table?
• Is the kitchen close enough to serve food easily?
• Are there power points?
• Is the llighting adequate?
• Is there heating?  Is it gas, electric or oil?  Will it be expensive to run?  Is it paid for?

LOUNGE ROOM

• Will your furniture fit?
• Is there a TV antenna outlet?
• Is there a heater or air-conditioner included in the price?  Is it gas, electric or oil?  Will it be expensive to run?  Is it paid for?

LAUNDRY

• Is the hot water connected?
• Can your automatic washing machine be installed without any problems?
• Are there any power points?
• Is there room for a clothes dryer?
• Is there a floor waste (drain) or is the fllor sufficiently graded so that any overflow water can escape without causing damage?