We help people to find their ideal property, but we know some people prefer to try and find their property on their own. We are often asked by such people about what they should be considering when looking for a property for themselves. Therefore, below is a list of what we believe are the 10 key principles to be carefully taken into account:
Location, Location, Location
Why do you think they made a TV programme out of the name! The location is considered the most significant and important factor when looking for a new home. In the main you can change almost anything about a property but you can’t change the location.
2. Aspect
Another key principle is to ideally choose a south and/or south west facing garden. It’s not always possible but having natural light in every home makes a significant difference so always check the orientation of the sun; take a compass with you if you don’t have one on your phone, when you view a property.
3. School Catchment Area
For those with children the choice of area and property could depend on where your children will be going to school. Do your research before you start your property search; use the internet and read Ofsted reports and contact the LEA (Local Education Authority) they may be able to give you some guidance and advice on which schools may have places available. Do not assume that the school closest to where you have found a suitable house will have a place for your child.
4. Access
Access to major transport links is a vital and crucial component when choosing the right location and the right property. Access to schools, the commutability of the area to work and even the access to local shops for your daily paper and provisions can all become ‘key’. As the world becomes smaller and more reachable, we also all need easy access to all four corners of the globe.
5. An established private plot
Having identified a suitable property, consider if the property is overlooked, if the outlook is interesting or could you be compromised by the neighbours. Think about if your hobbies, noise and activities will annoy or harm the enjoyment of your neighbours, or their hobbies annoy you! Having the right garden and a private plot could be a major factor to take into consideration for many.
6. Internet access, Broadband speed & Mobile phone coverage
In today’s world full of technology and with more people working from home, do not assume that mobile phone coverage, broadband speed and access is a given right. Most areas can be checked for coverage and performance on the internet when you are in a good signal area!
7. Aesthetically Appealing
If the property fits most of the other property search criteria, it is not too much to ask whether the property has visual appeal. Alternatively and importantly could you make the necessary changes to create an aesthetically appealing look to the home you are considering?
8. Room sizes and storage
Consider what a property would look like with your furniture in it and not what you see on your viewing. Do not be seduced by the electrical gadgets and plush leather settees; the decor and personal taste will undoubtedly change when they move out and you move in!
Consider the room proportions and where you envisage your personal things will go. Check on storage and always see what wardrobe space (or lack of) there is in the bedrooms. Fitted furniture normally stays with the property but, if it can be unscrewed it normally goes.
9. Interior Décor
You can change most things and the internal decoration is a personal choice. Do not be put off with the choice of paint on the walls. Most girls prefer pink whilst most boys opt for blues or simply plaster their walls with pictures of their favourite sports heroes this is all easy to alter.
10. Potential
Ask yourself, has the property reached its full potential? If not, what and how much do you need to spend in order to accomplish its full potential. Is the potential achievable?
With so much to consider you can see why people often use our services and have an objective voice rather than letting emotions cloud their judgement!
When you need help finding the perfect property, it's time to call the experts to help you. For more information about buying your next home, please contact Premier Property Search on 01962 793100 or email enquiries@premier-propertysearch.co.uk
