All the questions you have to ask when visiting a flat

At Espígul Real Estate we will explain to you some questions that you need to ask and comment to the person who is selling the flat in order to assess whether the purchase of this property is a success and not to find any surprises once the property is already yours. 

   Why is the house being sold?

This is a slightly personal question, but it can go a long way to playing some good cards when buying the home.

If the owner sells the house out of necessity, it will surely be possible to negotiate on the offer. If, on the other hand, the owner is not in a hurry and has simply put it on the market to see what happens, it will probably be more difficult for him to accept your proposal.

  How are the water and electricity facilities in the home?

Knowing the state of the floor installations is fundamental to avoid future problems. They are usually very expensive to replace and repair.

  What energy certificate does the flat have?

This question is very useful to know approximately how the expenses of the supplies of the flat will be. The owner can provide you with this document so that you can calculate the consumption of water, electricity and gas. 

  What does the sale price include? 

Make sure you understand what the selling price of the flat includes, such as furniture and appliances. 

Also whether all the expenses associated with the purchase of the home are paid by the seller, the buyer or shared.

  What is the housing environment like?

Ask what the neighbourhood is like where the flat is located, if there is a lot of noise, if it is difficult to park, if it is well located with respect to basic services such as shops, supermarkets, schools…

If the flat has neighbours, it is also important to know what they look like so that you can decide honestly whether or not you are interested in buying the flat.

  Has the building passed the ITE? 

The condition of the building is just as important as the condition of the property. This point will save you a lot of trouble in the future.

The ITE is the Technical Inspection of Buildings and is an inspection that buildings over 54 years old must pass to ensure that they are in good condition.

  Are there any outstanding costs?

It is important to know if the current owner is up to date with all payments:

Taxes: you can ask for proof of payment of IBI or other taxes.

Community of owners: if there is one, if it is included in the quota and how it is paid.

Other recommendations:

• Visit the flat on different days and at different times to assess whether the lighting, the environment… is compatible with what you are looking for.
• Take your time to make the visit, observe all the details of the property carefully.
• Keep an eye on the state of the house, this will allow you to see if the current owners have taken care of it and therefore if it is in good condition.
• Observe the distribution of the rooms to assess if you are interested in them as they are or if you will have to make some reforms.

The most important thing is that you do not have any doubts before making the purchase. As we have said, it is a very important decision and you must be aware of all the aspects of the home, so the most important recommendation is: ask everything that comes into your head!

At Espígul Real Estate we help you find the best home for you and your needs. If you don’t want to manage everything involved in the process of buying a flat, we will help you throughout the whole process: from the search to the signing of the papers. If you have any doubts, you can contact us at hola@espigul.com or call us on 972 220 110.