4 Property Defects Which Buyers Can Find Costly

4 Property Defects Which Buyers Can Find Costly

Buying a house is exciting and stressful, both at the same time. There are so many properties to see but finding the perfect one amongst them all is the reason for stress. You might have found the perfect house in the perfect neighbourhood, but don’t let the excitement cloud your judgement.

There may be a few defects in and around the house that could cause serious problems in the future and cost you a lot in the long run.
A qualified building surveyor is always your best bet for a thorough home evaluation and to rule out any possible defects. However, it is a good idea to have a general understanding of what to look out for. Here are the few defects to look out for at a house viewing:

Dampness
The main sign of dampness in a house is the mouldy smell, flaky plaster and watermarked walls or ceilings. It sounds obvious, but ensure you look closely at the ceilings and around the skirting boards. Dampness causes extensive damage to the property, it weakens the timber and the structure, eats away the floorboards, window frames and roof beams. If dampness is ignored it can cost, you a lot in repair. 

Exterior Cracks
The inside of the house can smell fresh from paint, but the exteriors could cost you a fortune if you ignore it. The cracks in the walls are unsightly and could be an indicator of serious structural problems. It is essential to know if a wall in the crack can be easily fixed with a bit of filler and re-paint or whether it needs structural repairs. Don’t underestimate the seriousness of the cracks and tilts in the house, especially if the property is a traditional home. 

Ventilation
Every house should have proper ventilation to ensure that the moisture in the home evaporates effectively. If the moisture sits in an area for a prolonged amount of time, it can cause issues. The areas that you need to pay attention to is the space between the roof and the ceiling. Proper ventilation in these areas will ensure the longevity of the roof and will help keep the interiors of the home dry at all times. 

DIY Repairs
While there is nothing wrong with DIY repairs, it is important to check they are done correctly. It is normal for a homeowner to undertake ‘do-it-yourself’ repairs around the home, so check the plumbing and electrical areas properly, especially in the bathroom. If you spot something that seems like it’s falling apart, address the issue with the seller. 

Get in touch with us

Unhappy with your current letting agent? Here’s how easy it is to make a switch

If your letting agent isn’t delivering, you don’t have to stay stuck. Switching agents is easier than many landlords realise and could protect your investment long-term. Here’s how the process works, and why September is the perfect time to act.

CLICK HERE >

What Every First-Time Buyer Should Know

Buying your first home is an exciting milestone, but it can also feel overwhelming. With so much to consider—budgets, mortgages, legal paperwork, and finding the right property—it’s easy to feel lost in the process. This guide outlines the key things every first-time buyer should know before taking that first step onto the property ladder.

CLICK HERE >

What to Check Before Renting a Property

Renting a new home can be an exciting fresh start—but it’s important to know what you’re getting into. Whether you’re moving into your first rental or switching properties, understanding what to look for can save you stress, money, and future headaches. Here’s a detailed guide to what every tenant should check before signing on the dotted line.

CLICK HERE >

How to Prepare Your Home for a Smooth Sale

Selling your home can feel like a daunting process, but with some careful preparation, you can give yourself the best possible chance of attracting the right buyer and achieving a smooth, successful sale. From creating the right first impression to dealing with those little jobs you’ve been meaning to do for years, here’s how to get your home market-ready.

CLICK HERE >