5 top tips on what to look for when choosing your new home

Finding your new home can be an incredibly stressful and challenging process.  There are so many emotions and worries, but at the same time so many hopes and dreams.  Even if you are not a first-time buyer, sometimes the romance idea of a beautiful home can blur your judgement.

1. Location, location, location

You can change the colour and windows of your home, but you cannot change its location.  Please make sure it is not on a flood risk zone, and if it is, with some due diligence, ensure all home insurances are viable.   It is important to map out your ideal area but on a more specific note, type of street is just as important.  Some people prefer to be in a busy road close to all the amenities and transport links while others rather live in a quieter road.  If you are like me, being away from noise is a priority, so a cul-de-sac is a great option, as there will be a limited number of cars driving by.  In the cold northern hemisphere, a South facing balcony or garden is ideal, but do not underestimate the power of the west.  Afternoon light is also good.

2. Size matters

As you know, as an architect and interior designer there is so much that I can do to make your spaces work for your lifestyle.  Unfortunately, I am not able to change the size of your lot or flat.  If it is a corner or interior one is also important depending on your preferences and the amount of natural light you want coming in.  Number and size of windows should also be noted and how much privacy you are willing to have or sacrifice.  A house may be staged to perfection and detract you from noticing the fact that you will always have to keep your window treatments closed and sacrifice your ventilation and light.

3. Age in time

I know older homes have character and great appeal. Unfortunately, they can also come with many quirks and repair needs.  If you are set on a particular period property, just make sure you are aware of how homes were constructed at that time.  If you have the time and budget to manage some upgrading projects, there is no reason to stop you.  New construction may have all the bells and whistles but again, it is important to know a little more about the builder or developer and the quality of projects they deliver.

4. Down to the bones

It is so easy to get caught up with the aesthetic attributes of a property and forget to pay attention to its bones. A solid foundation and a well-kept roof are key to a happy wallet, and I mean it. A small crack in the foundation or few aging rooftiles or shingles can turn quicky into nightmares. It is best to be prepared that if there are any problem signs you have a contingency plan for possible future replacements.  The same goes for the electrical, heating and sewer systems.  Therefore, returning to point 3, age is important.     

5. Follow the signs

When you are walking through a property or viewing it online (though a bit more challenging), try to pay attention to the little things.  By this I mean discoloured rings on ceilings, blemishes, a distinct musty smell, or recently painted wall sections are great tellers that something is not right.  They all point to water presence outside of pipes which is a definite no, no.  Water can basically destroy a home.  It is super hard to pinpoint the origins of a water issue so if it is not disclosed or it appears to be masked, ask about it. 

If you need help deciding on a property it is always a good idea to ask for some advice.  I recommend bringing in an interior designer before making any decisions.  At the end of the day, it is a big financial commitment and investing on a design consultation can spare you thousands of pounds in the future.  I would be delighted to come along on a viewing should you need a trained eye! Send me an email or message me through my website.