Are you looking for a new home?

Whether you want to upsize, downsize, get a change in scenery, or even purchase your very first home, the decision can be a daunting one.

Yes, a building inspection will cover the basics of a property's suitability. But there are so many other things you'll have to consider. That's why we've put together this unique property checklist. These are all things to keep in mind when you're out and about on a property inspection.

Is This Property Really Right For You?

Think about what features are important to you. Do you need a spare bedroom? Can you live without an ensuite? Is a second bathroom essential? Will the property provide enough space for your dog to roam around? Do you need room to park your boat or caravan?

Keep a realistic view of the 'essential' features your budget can afford. Don't let surprise add-ons in a property make you forget your budget!

Floor Plan And Room Size

Walk around the property and try to picture how your existing furniture and appliances would look when placed throughout.

Are the rooms the right size or shape to suit and, if not, are you prepared to splash out on replacements? Will your dining table fit? What about your fridge?

Kitchens are often built to suit the appliances the first owner had. It's possible for a kitchen to be too tailored to suit the fixtures you already have.

Orientation And Lighting

Check out the windows and see whether trees or nearby buildings will block out sunlight. Switch off the lights if they are on so that you can get a better feel for the natural light. Inspections are usually timed for hours when the home has its maximum of natural light.

Neighbours

Stepping right out of the shower is a bad time to realise your neighbors can see right into your windows! Take a good look at the property during your inspection to find out how well neighbors can see into the home.

Check out the neighboring properties to see whether they are well-maintained. Keep an ear out for noisy pets!

Don't see any neighbors? Check with the local council to see if there have been any development plans lodged near your home. It might look serene now, but that could change very quickly.

Parking

Does the property have sufficient off-street parking? If not, familiarise yourself with local parking restrictions to get an idea of how hard it could be to find parking during peak traffic hours.

Also, take into consideration the needs of your growing family. Got kids? Within a few years, you may need parking for three or four vehicles instead of just one or two.

Heating, Cooling And Ventilation

Check on the age and functionality of any existing heating/cooling systems. The kitchen and bathroom should have good ventilation with functioning extractor fans. Keep in mind that a house with high ceilings will cost more to efficiently heat.

Fixtures And Fittings

Are there enough power points located in convenient places? What is the condition of any existing curtains, blinds, flyscreens, light fittings and other fixtures?

Noise

Common walls, floors and ceilings can often be an issue for noise, especially in areas such as communal stairwells. Is the property well insulated? Are there carpets or double-glazed windows to help with the noise?

Potential sources of noise can include:

• Traffic
• Shared courtyards on the property
• Nearby schools or sporting clubs