Points to Look at When Purchasing

Though it can be both stressful and exciting to purchase a new property, there are many factors which the prospective buyer must take into account before making any hasty decisions which could ultimately lead to expensive mistakes and many regrets. Below are a collection of some of the most important aspects which buyers must take note of when seeking to purchase new houses, apartments, townhouses, duplexes, simplexes etc.etc.

Appearance, location and size of the property

When considering buying a property, one should always think ahead. What may be appealing now, for example a double storey home, may not be as practical once the kids have grown up and moved out. One should also think of possible opportunities for alterations and additions. With regards to homes built near rivers or streams, buyers should be advised to investigate flood line restrictions imposed by local municipalities.

Damp/Water Damage

One of the major points to keep an eye open for, is water damage or rising damp. Caused by ineffective waterproofing methods, this can become an expensive problem to rectify. Prospective buyers should make observations of any flaking of bubbling paint, which conceals damp ceiling or walls. It is recommended that a qualified plumber  investigate the situation if you are unsure. They will also assist you in specifying what needs to be repaired by the current owner before you buy the property.

The property seller however, is required to indicate any such problems to the estate agent and potential buyer to prevent any legal action being taken against them at a later point.  The property seller should indicate what has been agreed upon with the buyer with regards to plumbing problems and/or water damage in the sales contract. It is also important to note that although not a legal requirement, buyers may request sellers to provide a certified plumber's certificate for the property.

The Roof

The roof should be inspected for any structural failure, eg. sagging or deformation along the roof lines. A structural engineer may inspect this for you should it be a problem. This is an extremely important note to make when planning on purchasing a property outside of a rainy season, which makes it very difficult to spot any precarious or recurring leaks.

Structural Failure

Although some cracks are less prominent, structural cracks, which can be visible on either side of a wall could be a sign of a failure in the property's foundation, or even massive structural damage. One should take special not of diagonal cracks running up towards the corners of door and window frames. Excessive use of plastering and patching materials on the interior of a home's walls could als be indicative of severe structure problems. Once the construction of a home is completed, such structural issues can be extremely difficult and expensive to repair. Once again a structural engineer will be able to provide some insight into the problem.

Approved plans

It is essential that potential buyers consult the local municipality to inquire as to whether all structures on the properties are approved, and that the buildings fall within building lines. This is extremely important, as any buildings or structures which do not appear on approved plans, are considered to be illegal.

Another factor to consider , is the current zoning of the property. This will affect any future intentions to build. The home you intend to purchase should be zoned according to the approved zoning category of the stand. Existing pipelines, servitudes and cables should also be represented on all approved plans.