Counter-visit: the essential points to check
MAY 20, 2019
You have visited a house or apartment and are hesitant to go ? This is normal, renting a property, or even more buying, is an important investment that requires careful thought. Before you decide, do not hesitate to ask a counter-visit to see the housing again. Here is a checklist of the main items to review during this second move.
Factors to consider inside the property
During the first visit of a property, it is common to be caught in the euphoria of the project and miss important elements . That is why it is advisable to make a second visit, preferably accompanied, to have a second opinion.
To avoid unpleasant surprises, we advise you to check again :
> The actual area of the apartment: bring a meter to calculate the living space and check the dimensions of each room. Beware, attic roofs, stairs and cupboards are as many m2 lost!
> The ventilation: to prevent moisture problems, take stock of the different VMC installations. Distrust, heavy condensation on the tiles, halos on the walls or the smell of mildew are signs of a damp house .
> The state of the installations: check the electrical installation in particular. Are some wires bare? Do the switches all work? Also inspect the faucet: pressure in faucets, appearance of joints ... Finally, ask to see the home's energy performance certificate (EPC).
> Soil condition: do not hesitate to lift the rugs or move the furniture to detect any cracks on the tiles or traces of shock on the floor.
In general, take the time to inspect the nooks of each room (ceilings, bottom walls, interior cupboards ...) to detect any hidden defects .
Did you know ? The calculation of the living space takes into account the parts with frequent use : living room, kitchen, bathroom and shower room, hallway and stairs. Unmanaged or inaccessible attics, wall or walled floor surfaces, unheated porches, basements and garages, as well as all surfaces less than 2m high, are do not count for the calculation of the living space.
Checkpoints outside
Whether you buy an apartment or a house, the exterior of the property also deserves special attention.
Focus on two essential elements :
> The state of the facade: check for cracks in the building, indicating high humidity and / or movement of the foundations. Also consider the general appearance of the plaster and shutters.
> The state of the roof: to avoid sealing and moisture problems, make sure the tiles are not covered with moss or vegetation .
In any case, ask on which dates were realized the last works of facelift and maintenance of the roof. This will allow you to get an idea of the care given to the outside part of the house.
If you buy an apartment, it is also essential to redo a point on the general condition of the common areas (stairwell, corridors, mailboxes ...). Ask if the condo syndicate has planned renovations in the coming months.
The environment: an essential criterion to analyze
During a counter-visit, the environment is a point not to be neglected. In many ways, it will be an integral part of your future living environment. On your first visit, you may have already spotted nearby amenities , such as shopping, parking, or a transit line.
This time, it is about going further and get a clear idea of the neighborhood's atmosphere . Here are some tips to apply during the counter-visit :
> Come on a different schedule: you will be able to identify the various noise nuisances (traffic flow, shops), the activities of the neighborhood, but also the level of sunshine.
> If you can, ask neighbors and traders: they are in the best position to talk to you about neighborhood life, its positive and negative points.
As you have understood, to be effective, the counter-visit is a step that must be prepared beforehand. You now have all the keys in hand to be vigilant during the second visit of a house or apartment.
Need to be advised in your transaction? Find our selectionof listings for properties to buy or rentand get accompanied by a real estate professional !
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> Understand your lease agreement