Key questions to ask during a home inspection.

When you finally step foot into a property you've been eyeing online, it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement.

But before rushing to make an offer, it’s essential to take a step back and ask yourself critical questions.

After all, owning a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll make, and you want to make sure there are no hidden surprises. 

Create a checklist of your must-haves and deal-breakers, and don't hesitate to consult with a mortgage adviser like us!

Here are some key questions to help you navigate the home inspection process and make smarter, more informed decisions.

1) Is the property staging hiding any issues?

Stylishly staged homes are designed to capture your heart, but don’t let the décor blind you to potential problems. Homeowners and real estate agents know that first impressions count, so it’s important to look beyond the cosmetics.

• Are those beautiful rugs hiding cracks in the floors?
• Is that artwork strategically placed to conceal wall damage?
• Are the lights on because the home gets limited natural light?

When you strip away the staging, make sure you're left with a solid foundation, not costly issues.

2) What renovations have been done?

Knowing if any renovations or modifications have been made can give you a clear understanding of the home’s true value. Additionally, these changes might spark ideas for your future improvements. However, some renovations can come with restrictions, so it's crucial to ask if any council permissions were needed or if there are limitations you should be aware of.

3) Why are they selling?

Getting to the heart of why the owners are selling can be a valuable insight. Perhaps they’re in a hurry, which could give you an advantage in negotiations. Knowing how long the property has been on the market can also inform your decision-making and help determine if the asking price is fair.

4) What condition is the roof in?

Roof repairs can be expensive, so it’s essential to assess its condition. Look for signs of water damage, missing tiles, or mould. From the outside, check if the roof gutters are rusting or if the downpipes run to storm drains. Inside, shine a torch across the ceilings to spot any sagging or defects.

5) What's the plumbing like?

Make sure to test the plumbing by turning on taps and flushing toilets. Listen for any unusual noises and check for water pressure issues. It’s also worth asking about the age of the hot water system and when it was last serviced to avoid costly replacements down the line.

6) What's the property's orientation?

Orientation affects natural light. North or northeast-facing properties typically get the most sunlight. If the lights are all turned on during the inspection on a sunny day, this could be a red flag that the home lacks natural light, leaving you with a cold, dark home in the winter months.

7) Have you researched the area?

Do your homework on the suburb’s growth, comparable sales, and the listed price. It’s also important to consider the lifestyle the area offers, such as nearby amenities, schools, and upcoming developments that could influence your decision.

Ready to make your move?

If you're thinking about purchasing a home or investment property this season, make sure you have the right financial strategy in place.

At FinancePath, we’re here to help you secure the right finance, provide expert advice, and guide you through every step of the journey.

Call us today at 1300 780 440 or book a 10-minute chat to kickstart your journey toward homeownership.