Property Viewing Checklist

Navigating the home-buying journey in Dublin requires careful consideration, and this Property Viewing Checklist serves as a valuable tool for smart decision-making.

1. What’s included in the price?
   Understanding what elements are encompassed in the property’s price, such as curtains, carpets, appliances, and fixtures, helps assess its overall value and potential additional costs.
2. How flexible is the seller on the asking price?
   Negotiating the asking price is a common practice in real estate transactions. Knowing the seller’s flexibility can inform your bargaining strategy.
3. How long has the property been on the market?
   The duration a property has been listed can indicate its desirability and potential negotiation leverage.
4. Why is the seller selling the property? Are they keen on a quick sale?
   Knowing the seller’s motivation can provide insight into their willingness to negotiate and the urgency of the sale.
5. Has there been much interest in the property, or any other offers?
   Understanding the level of interest and any competing offers can inform your approach to making an offer.
6. What is the energy rating?
   Energy efficiency is increasingly important for cost savings and environmental impact, making the property’s energy rating a valuable consideration.
7. What aspect is the garden/balcony?
   The orientation of outdoor spaces (e.g. south-facing) can affect natural light, temperature, and overall enjoyment of the property.
8. When was it built (essential for insurance, especially if over 100 years old)?
   The age of the property is crucial for insurance purposes and may also impact its structural integrity and maintenance needs.
9. Are there any other similar properties for sale in the area?
   Comparing similar properties and their asking prices provides context for evaluating the property’s value.
10. Has the property been altered?
    Any modifications to the property should be disclosed and may impact its functionality, aesthetics, and compliance with regulations.
11. How is the property heated? Is it insulated?
    Understanding the heating system and insulation can influence energy costs and comfort levels.
12. Has there ever been a fire in the property?
    Past incidents like fires should be disclosed and investigated for potential safety and structural concerns.
13. Has the property or local area ever flooded?
    Flood history can affect insurance costs and risks associated with the property.
14. What kind of parking is available?
    Assessing parking options is essential for convenience and potential additional expenses.
15. Has there ever been any difficulty securing home (building and contents) insurance at normal rates?
    Insurance availability and costs can vary based on factors like property history and location.
16. Are there proposed developments in the area?
    Future developments can impact property value, neighbourhood aesthetics, and amenities.
17. Is there Wi-Fi available?
    Connectivity is increasingly important, and knowing the availability of Wi-Fi can impact lifestyle and work needs. You can check this by putting the property’s Eircode into bonkers.ie or switcher.ie.
18. What are the neighbours like?
    Neighbourhood dynamics and relationships can influence quality of life and property value.
19. Has the roof been repaired or replaced since the property was built?
    Roof maintenance is crucial for property integrity, and recent repairs or replacements indicate proactive upkeep.
20. What level of snagging is included (new builds only)?
    Assessing the level of snagging included in new builds ensures quality assurance and addresses any construction defects.
21. How old is the water boiler/cylinder? When was it last serviced?
    The age and condition of the water boiler/cylinder impact functionality and potential maintenance costs.
22. What is the annual service charge?
    For multi-unit developments, understanding the annual service charge is essential for budgeting and assessing value.
23. What schools and transport links are available?
    Proximity to schools and transportation infrastructure influences convenience and property value.
24. How much have similar properties sold for?
    Recent sales data of similar properties provides insight into market trends and property value.
25. How much will renovations cost?
    Estimating renovation costs helps assess the total investment needed and potential return on investment.
26. If the attic/loft is converted, is it certified? If used as a habitable space, it requires planning permission.
    Certification for converted spaces ensures compliance with regulations and avoids potential legal issues.
27. Check Radon levels.
    Radon levels can impact health and safety, and checking for radon levels ensures a healthy living environment. Check out the Radon map coverage and use the home’s Eircode to check.
28. Check if the home measurements match those on the BER assessment report (can be found on SEAI.ie).
    Verifying measurements ensures accuracy in property descriptions and assessments.
29. If you’re not familiar with the local area, it would be worth visiting it at different times over different days and months.
    Exploring the neighbourhood at various times provides a comprehensive understanding of its dynamics and potential issues.
30. If there is a septic tank, is it compliant and functioning properly?
    Ensuring septic tank compliance avoids potential environmental and health hazards.
31. Assess roof flatness. What percent of the roof is flat? This can be an insurance issue.
    The percentage of flat roof can affect insurance costs and potential maintenance issues.

Karen Mulvaney

Karen is well-known and respected within the property industry, with over 20 years’ experience, and specialises in the Sale and Acquisition of residential property.

Thursday, February 22, 2024 in News & Highlights