What to Look for When Buying a House: Step-by-Step Guide

Landlords

Posted in Mar 17 , 2025

One of the most important financial decisions is buying a house for your family. Whether purchasing it for the first time or not, knowing what you are looking for will save time and avoid spending more. Property prices have fluctuated since 2025 started, and experts predict it will evolve with time, so it's compulsory to have this checklist about what to look for when buying a house in London.

Check the location and neighbourhood

One of the most important factors in property buying is the location. Having the best location maximises the value, amenities, and solid options for resale in future. You need to consider the ease of public transport, roads, and highways because these features impact how convenient your living will be.

Families should consider proximity to schools and other necessities before making a decision. Local areas, including supermarkets, hospitals, parks, and playing activities, balance the quality of life. Moreover, when buying a house, you should consider the crime rate and other local area fees related to safety and security, their development programs and any upcoming projects. All of these factors will ensure that your property gets the maximum value.

Don’t overlook the internal structure

Buyers often go for how good the house looks instead of how strong the basics are. Any hidden issue that arises after purchase will cost from your pocket, so it's important to check for missing tiles, leaks, or sagging. In case of any dampness or mould, you should be looking at a bigger problem, so check if the paint is peeling or giving you a musty smell.

Another important factor is the size of the cracks in the walls; if they are larger, they indicate costly structural issues. Check the windows and doors to see if they work correctly and if the wood is rotted. Next, examine the plumbing, drainage, and any leaking taps, toilets, and water flow.

Legal considerations when buying a house

Homeowners must know the legal and financial aspects of the property. The first step is ensuring the property is on lease or free. A leased property will require a complete checkup about the length and charges. Another highlight is reviewing the council tax bands, as the higher the bands, the higher the annual cost will be.

If you plan to take out a mortgage, consider its affordability carefully. You should also consider stamp duty and other costs, such as the fees, survey, and other renovation expenses. Contacting the local authority could also help you find more details, such as permission to plan, road developments, or tenant disputes.

Security and safety should be top priority

A safe home offers peace of mind, so security and safety should be top priorities. The quality of locks and security systems should be checked to ensure that doors and windows have secure locking mechanisms. Fire safety measures should include smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, and clear fire exits. It is a good idea to visit the neighbourhood at different times of the day to get a feel for safety levels and community activity. Checking with local authorities for historical safety concerns can provide additional insights.

Assess the property's future growth

Buying a house is not just about the physical property but also the long-term financial implications. It is important to assess whether the property is a good investment by reviewing market trends. Researching past sale prices of similar properties and analysing future growth potential can help make an informed decision. Renting out a portion of the house or considering its resale value can also be part of the financial evaluation. Many buyers underestimate additional ongoing costs such as maintenance, repairs, insurance, and potential service charges, which should all be considered before purchasing.

How Cribs Estates Can Help

The property market is challenging, but with Cribs Estates by your side, you can have peace of mind knowing our experts know what to look for when buying a house. We specialise in helping buyers find the right property whilst ensuring all checks are covered. Our team provides expert advice on location trends and investment potential, ensuring we choose an area you will appreciate. We also offer cover property inspections that highlight hidden issues before purchase.

Our guidance on legal and financial aspects ensures a smooth transaction, avoiding common pitfalls that many buyers face. We help you secure the best deal, saving you money in the long run. We provide access to exclusive listings that match your requirements, giving you more options than what is available on the general market.

Buying a home should be an exciting experience, not a stressful one. With Cribs Estates by your side, you can confidently make the right decision whilst we handle the hurdles. Our team handles the legalities, inspections, and negotiations, allowing you to focus on finding the perfect home. Whether you are a first-time buyer or an experienced investor, we ensure you are safe with us.

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HMRC MTD Self-Employed Landlords 2026: Complete Guide

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