Planning a property showing visit this month? It is a good idea to go prepared. Knowing where to look and what to focus on can simplify the process. Properties in big cities need a thorough examination. Even if the first impressions are great, you need to inspect the property deeply. Whether looking for new condos in Pickering or any other major city across the world, it is important to get your inspection right.
Buying a new property is all about feeling the connection. Keeping in mind the fact that you will be spending a lot of time on the property, making the right decision is very important. Also, buying decisions should be based on real facts relevant to the property as well. Some major factors should tell you if the property is the right investment. Here are some things to look for when going on a showing:
1: Visible Obvious Damage
The first thing you would want to notice is obvious damage. Are there any signs of obvious damage around the property? Does the exterior have visible cracks or hidden damage under the paint? Do you see some obvious damage to the interior of the property? All these are important questions.
Also, it is important to keep in mind that if the property isn’t brand new, it will have some damage. Little wear and tear that is easy to fix shouldn’t be a red flag. However, red flags will include the likes of peeling paint, water damage, mold, roofing, or foundation issues. Inspect everywhere you can reach.
2: Look for Noise Issues in a Big City
Big cities are notorious for the noise problem. The bigger the city, the bigger the noise pollution will be. In many cases, there is no way to get around this as well. Unless you would want to spend tens of thousands on the best noise insulation, you would want to stay away from noisy properties.
However, another important thing to note is that all the prime locations in big cities will have noise issues. So, it can be a personal preference thing and a trade-off you would have to accept. Weigh in your priorities and preferences and make the best buying decision.
3: Are the Rooms the Right Size for Your Furniture?
A very important factor that can so easily get overlooked is the size of the rooms. However, this will come to haunt you when you move into the property. The bedrooms, living rooms, and all other rooms should be able to fit your furniture easily. They should be the right size.
Newer properties are being built with smaller rooms. However, reselling ones can still have larger more spacious rooms. Measuring the room size and also the size of your beds, tables, and all other furniture is very important. Also, the rooms should not feel too cramped once the furniture is rested.
4: Check All the Appliances for Working Condition
The stove, the washer, the dryer, and all the other appliances are important factors. Make sure to check them all if they are working correctly. Buying a new property and settling in it, you will need your appliances to be in working condition. You don’t want to spend the time and money fixing them.
Also, if you are to replace the appliances, factor their cost into the budget as well. Check each appliance individually. This should give you a good idea about the electrical situation of the house as well. However, it is important not to miss out on checking appliance condition at all.
5: Check the Quality and Condition of the Floor
Flooring is always a very important feature for any property, new or old. Also, this is often the most expensive fix or part of the property as well. Check the condition of the floor in detail. If the previous homeowner had pets, kids, or heavy furniture, check if there is any damage caused.
When you walk around the floor in your socks, how do they feel? A bumpy or uneven floor could be a sign of underlying damage and larger issues. Warping from water damage could also be bad. Also, check for pest infestations down under as well. Water damage will be very hard and expensive to fix.
6: Check If There Is Enough Storage Available
Storage will always be vital. Built-in storage including pantries, closets, and other spaces will make living much easier and more organized. Also, the bigger the closets, the more clothes you will be able to hang in them. So, make sure to look around for storage wherever available.
Buying a new property is a personal decision. Also, the amount of storage you will need can be a personal preference as well. So, make sure the property has the right amount of storage you will need for an organized living. Also, check if all the storage areas are clean, damage-free, and ready to use.
7: Check the Building and Its Surroundings
When looking for condos for sale in Mississauga or going on a showing appointment in any other large city, the building will play a vital role as well. Residential buildings are mini-communities. You should feel welcomed in the community of the building.
Most of the little things will only arise once you move in. However, you can check for a lot during your showing visit. Also, check the building’s surroundings as well. How close it is to major points of interest, transport systems, and other areas will play a vital role as well.
8: Is the Plumbing in a Good Enough Condition?
One of the biggest put-offs for a lot of you will be the plumbing. Leaking visible pipes or underfloor pipes can be a lot of pain to fix. Also, these can be very expensive fixes depending on their location and nature. So, make sure to check for the plumbing condition on your first showing.
It is a good idea to take someone with you who is well-versed in plumbing. Also, check if both hot and cool water sides are working properly. While you are at it, check for the condition of the heating system as well. The property should be in move-in ready condition and plumbing is a big part of that.