Thinking of moving house? Speaking directly to the seller is the best way to get clued up on their personal situation, their property and the local area. Here are 6 more questions that you’ll want to know the answers to.
How long have you lived in the house?
This is a good indicator of how well the seller knows their property and the local area. If they’ve lived there for years they should know the property inside out. Delve deeper if the seller is moving out after just a year or so.
What’s the lowest offer you’ll accept?
This could be a way of getting your seller to reveal the lowest offer they’re happy to accept – estate agents are much cannier at keeping the price high. Don’t ask this before you’ve established a rapport with the seller and think of it as a way to gauge your offer.
When were the electrics last checked?
Bringing electrics up to modern building regulations can run into the thousands. If you’re uncertain of the state of play or you’re looking at a period property, commission a Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) so you know what issues you could be facing.
What’s included in the sale?
As part of the selling process, the vendor will fill out a fixtures and fittings form. Ask a good conveyancing solicitor like https://www.samconveyancing.co.uk/ to help you clarify what is and isn’t included in the sale. Then you can ask your seller directly about any white goods or whether the garden shed is staying or going. This can be particularly important if you assume the carpets are staying and find they’re not on the form.
Have you ever been burgled?
If there has been a robbery, find out what steps have been taken to make sure it doesn’t happen again. Even if the property hasn’t been burgled but neighbouring properties have, you’ll need to factor extra security measures into the offer you make.
What are the neighbours like?
Bad neighbours are a nightmare and can knock up to £130,000 off the value of a house. Ask the seller about their relationship with the neighbours and then pop next door and introduce yourself. Hopefully, they’ll be friendly and you’ll get on like a house on fire so there are no issues in future!
