Moving house is a huge decision for any individual or family as if you are renting, it is probably your biggest expenditure and the place you spend most of your time, or if you are a homeowner then your most valuable asset.
When you find the perfect house or flat it can be really easy to get carried away and have tunnel vision. You can see yourself living there but you forget to ask yourself some important questions to help you judge the viability of your move on the long run. Ask yourself these questions before you come blinded by love!
What are the local amenities like?
Is the local area good, and does it have plenty to offer? You should easily be able to go shopping for food and essentials without having to travel long distances. The facilities in the local area should be sufficient for you not to worry about where your next loaf of bread is going to come from. Before you commit to a property, have a drive around the area to see what is around and ask yourself, could I see myself living here?
Do the schools have spaces?
Local schools vary across the UK and this has been an issue of much debate over the last few years. People are moving to local areas that have the best schools, so if you have children or plan to have children one day, you should look into what schools are in the area of your new home and whether your child is likely to get a space in any of them, because if they are full you would have to join a waiting list.
What is the quality of life like?
How affluent is the area you are planning to move to? Look up on the internet the local crime levels and get a sense on what the quality of life is going to be like. There is no point moving somewhere that will offer you a poor life full of hardship and crime. If you are buying or letting a house then asking your estate agent is a good start as they probably know the local neighbourhoods well.
Is the house built well?
Architecture goes through different periods in terms of design and quality and this is an important factor when looking at your new property. Some houses were rushed after the war to get built and this often reflects in the quality of the build. If you are moving to a flat then also bear in mind the quality of a new build or purpose built flat will be a lot better than a conversion of a previous house. A quality home will need less money spent on it in the long run.
Are there hidden problems?
Check out the paperwork and legal documents extremely carefully, and have a solicitor review everything to make sure nothing is suspicious. This is particularly important when it comes to leasehold. Ensure the sale will go through smoothly and there aren’t any restrictions of defects to the property that you are not aware of.
Steve advises people on property and works for an Estate Agent in Sussex called HIEA, helping people find their dream homes and lettings.
