12 questions to ask when visiting a property

By asking relevant and insightful questions, you can gather valuable information that goes beyond the surface. These inquiries can reveal essential insights about the property's history, maintenance records, potential issues, and other factors that might significantly impact your decision-making process.

Armed with this knowledge, you'll be better equipped to make an informed and confident decision about whether the property is the right investment for you.

The seller should be able to provide this information, as it is typically documented in an official property assessment. Knowing the accurate dimensions and total size allows you to determine if the asking price aligns with the current market rates in the property's area.

If the property has been renovated by the current or previous owner, it's essential to understand what modifications were made and under what conditions. Examples include demolition of a load-bearing wall, room reconfigurations, creation of new spaces, or upgrades to doors and windows.

In particular, verify that all necessary permits and certificates have been obtained from the relevant authorities, such as the town hall, condominium association, or any other official institution. Additionally, ensure that these changes are reflected in the property plans, the co-ownership agreement, and are accounted for in the property tax calculations.

A seller eager to make a quick sale might be tempted to say, “None,” even if the water heater only has a few months left or other issues are pending. However, hiding defects comes with the risk of legal consequences, so providing accurate information benefits both parties.

The answer to this question helps you:

• Accurately define the budget required for your purchase, including potential financing or investments for necessary renovations.
• Negotiate the listed price, as understanding needed repairs gives you leverage for adjustments.

Events like floods, natural disasters, fires, or even the collapse of an interior wall can significantly impact a property’s structural integrity. Although such issues are often covered by insurance and may not be visible during a visit, they can indicate underlying vulnerabilities.

Ensure you have comprehensive information about any past damage to the property. If necessary, consider checking with neighbors or the local community to confirm any significant incidents.

In most condominiums, owners are required to pay monthly or quarterly fees, which can vary based on the property’s size and its location within the building. Additional costs may apply depending on the amenities included, such as heating, water, or other shared facilities.

It’s helpful to ask about the average annual amount for these fees. This total, when combined with mortgage payments, will give you a clearer picture of the overall property costs and help you determine if it aligns with your budget.

If renovations have already been approved and scheduled, the current owner is generally responsible for covering those costs. However, if modifications are only "planned" or proposed for an upcoming general meeting, the financial responsibility may fall to the next owner. Major projects, such as a façade renovation, can be costly, so it’s essential to understand these potential expenses.

Request access to the minutes from the last three general meetings. These records provide valuable insights into the building’s management, upcoming projects, and any proposed changes.

This is an important question, as single glazing often indicates poor insulation, which can lead to high energy bills and intrusive external noise.

Most modern properties now use double or even triple glazing, providing much better insulation. Be sure to check this detail carefully, as upgrading glazing can be a costly project if it’s not already in place.

Knowing the location of load-bearing walls is crucial if you plan to reconfigure the property’s layout. Removing a load-bearing wall is more complex and costly than removing a non-structural one, both technically and administratively, as it often requires special permits and approvals.

Understanding this layout will help you plan any renovations and avoid unexpected expenses or delays.

Is the property equipped with fiber optic internet or only ADSL? In urban areas, fiber optic connections are generally available, but this isn’t always the case in more rural settings. If you work from home or are accustomed to high-speed internet, relying on ADSL could feel like a significant downgrade.

While you’re visiting, it’s also a good idea to check your mobile phone signal to ensure reliable network coverage in the area.

The surrounding community can vary significantly, with some neighborhoods having families with children, students in shared housing, or elderly residents. Understanding this will give you a sense of the types of noise and activity you might expect.

Asking about the neighborhood helps you anticipate the overall atmosphere and decide if it aligns with your preferences.

Good access to public transportation adds convenience for both you and anyone visiting your home. Check whether nearby bus stops, tram lines, or metro stations make the property easily reachable.

Additionally, consider the parking situation for yourself, your family, and any guests, as this can impact daily convenience and ease of access.

Understanding the reason behind the sale can help reveal any potential weaknesses of the property. If the current owner is reluctant to answer, it could suggest they may be withholding information about neighborhood issues, humidity problems, or significant repairs that are needed.

Asking this question encourages transparency and helps you make an informed decision.

By covering these areas thoroughly, you can approach your purchase with confidence, reduce unexpected expenses, and ensure the property truly meets your needs. The more information you gather upfront, the better positioned you’ll be to make a decision that supports your lifestyle and long-term plans.