Discover the hidden costs in your next home purchase

Your dream home has been found, and everything seems to be in order. It's also possible you are a seller who is looking for a new home to meet your growing needs and lifestyle. Is there a foundation crack, outdated wiring, or hidden leak hiding beneath the surface?

An inspection of the property can help you in this situation. As a general rule, you can think of it as a comprehensive house inspection. In addition to assessing the property's condition, an experienced surveyor also identifies potential problems that may negatively affect the value or safety of the property.

A home inspection ensures buyers are investing wisely by revealing hidden problems before committing. Your property can stand out in a competitive market if it addresses concerns early on.

Example

Your surveyor is the only professional who visits the property on your behalf. They are your legal advisor's eyes and ears, as well as the IFA's to some extent.

The wall below illustrates the importance of surveys and isn't visible from the property. On one side of the garden wall, it looks like it could've been repaired, but on the other side, it's partially collapsed on to someone else’s land!

During a survey, your surveyor will identify defects, financial liabilities, health risks, and potential risks. In addition to following the trail, your surveyor will question everything. 

By conducting a level 2 survey, a potential bill of £3k was avoided for our client.

Expectations for Buyers

An overview of what buyers can expect during the survey process

The property survey becomes an important step in your journey to homeownership once your offer is accepted. Take advantage of this opportunity to ensure your decision is informed.

It is important to choose the right surveyor at the beginning of the process. The property will be thoroughly inspected by an expert, often recommended by your conveyancer, in order to identify any potential issues. They'll check every detail, from the roof to the foundation, flagging anything that needs repair.

You will receive a detailed report following the inspection. In this document, you can find out what the property's current condition is and what needs to be done to improve it.

A conveyancer can help you decide what to do if the report reveals problems. If the problems are more substantial than expected, the deal may need to be renegotiated, the purchase price may need to be adjusted, or even the deal might have to be reconsidered.

Property surveys are more than just a procedural step - they can give you confidence when it comes to moving forward with your sale.

Expectations for Sellers

Buyers aren't the only ones who need property surveys - sellers can also benefit from them, helping ensure their sale runs smoothly and without unnecessary hiccups.

A survey you commission before listing can help you uncover and address potential issues early, resulting in a smoother sale. In addition to reassuring prospective buyers, this proactive approach enables you to present your property in its best light - clean, accessible, and ready to impress.

You will be prepared to address concerns identified by the buyer's survey. The conveyancer's guidance will help you reach practical solutions, such as repairing the property or adjusting the price, keeping the negotiation stress-free and straightforward.

Why choose Carpenter Surveyors?

Whether you are buying or selling, addressing these issues early will prevent unexpected costs and unfortunate surprises later.

Founded in 1988, our success is based on a number of sound principles, including a strong belief in the role of the independent Chartered Surveyor, a clear understanding of our clients' needs, and their right to receive structured, personal, yet professional advice.

What areas do Carpenter Surveyors cover for property surveys and valuations?

Areas we cover:

Warwickshire, Worcestershire, West Midlands, Staffordshire, Leicestershire, Rutland, Nottinghamshire, Derby, Gloucestershire, Herefordshire, Cotswolds and Northamptonshire.

Get a Quote from Carpenter Surveyors today.