After your real estate visit and before signing a real estate purchase contract, you must ask yourself certain questions. These include the characteristics of the property and its surroundings. Topo on the 20 essential questions to buy a house .
simulate my mortgage
Your bank has given its approval in principle for the mortgage application , so you are in good shape to make your visit.
What is the price of the house?
Before viewing a home, make sure the price is within your budget. In addition to the purchase price of the property, you must plan for ancillary expenses: administration fees, notary fees, etc.
To make sure that the properties you visit correspond to your budget, you can simulate your borrowing capacity online .
Is this a new or old house?
Before visiting a house, you must have a clear idea of the type of property you wish to acquire. Do not hesitate to ask if the house is new or old. If it is old, also ask for the date of construction of the building, if the real estate agent fails to specify it.
Where is the property located exactly?
There is no point in visiting the house if its location does not suit you. Ideally, the property must be accessible by public transport or be close to your places of personal or professional interest: office, school, shopping centre, etc.
What is the surface area of the property?
Confirm the exact area of the property by determining the number of m² of each room, attic, outdoor spaces… Also think about “living area”. Don’t forget that the attic and non-private surfaces which are not considered by the Carrez law , but which are good pluses!
What work is required?
Do not neglect the work to be expected (for a purchase in the old) which may increase the overall cost of acquisition of the property. The purchase in the nine admits only very little work, even not at all, in particular thanks to the biennial and ten-year guarantees.
How much is the property tax?
The amount of the property tax takes into consideration the particularities of the property and the personal situation of the occupant, whether it is a first-time buyer or not and will take into account his income in particular!
What are the charges related to the house?
A word of advice: check the amount of the property’s charges, in particular the energy costs (water, gas and electricity). Some solutions make it possible to reduce these costs, such as insulating the house, reducing the power of the electricity subscription or regular maintenance of the heating.
Questions about the condition of the house
What condition are the walls, ceilings and floors in?
You need to check the house for any cracks, leaks, etc. Inspect every corner, especially when buying an old home. Also pay attention to potential hidden defects.
In what state are the equipment of the house?
Essential: control the various equipment allowing the house to remain practical and functional (lighting, smoke detectors, etc.).
In what condition are the sanitary facilities?
Don’t forget to check if the toilets are in good condition and working properly. This includes the kitchen sink, faucets, shower, flushing…