Buying an apartment: what to check
When visiting an apartment you want to buy, especially if you like the apartment or house, don't let yourself be distracted by the mere pleasure of having finally found the rare pearl. Advice before buying a house or an apartment, question to ask yourself, points to check: what to look for when visiting an apartment to buy?
The environment of the apartment
Take time to stroll around the neighborhood. Then check if you find nearby the shops, schools and amenities that are important to you. Do not hesitate to ask the owner for information.
Is the property close to public transport? This is an important point to improve the valuation of a property, but also a faster resale. In general it is considered that up to 800 m public transport is at a respectable distance.
The building and the condominium
Questions to ask yourself:
Is the facade in good condition? In the city, buildings are renovated every 10 to 15 years. Do not forget to go to the courtyard side and also check the condition of the facades.
How to assess whether a condominium is functioning properly. A simple sign: a well-maintained and clean building generally reveals a quality condominium. If that is not the case, be careful!
Ask for the amount of condominium fees and what they involve (maintenance, heating, water, garden...) in order to assess whether they are excessive.
The apartment
Clarity and calm are the two most important aspects for buyers.
When it comes to clarity, it's good to know that a northern exposure doesn't mean a dark apartment. The sun on the other hand will not enter the apartment.
If the lights are on in the apartment, ask to have them turned off to check the brightness. The main source of light being the sky, the more visible it is from a window, the brighter it will be.
For external noise pollution, if you live in Ile-de-France, you can consult the noise map: http://www.bruitparif.fr/. As far as noise pollution from buildings is concerned, they will depend on the civility of the co-owners who will be your neighbors. A tip: visit the apartment at the end of the day, these are usually the moments of greatest movement in buildings.
Visit to buy an old apartment
The condition of the cellars is indicative of the good condition of condominiums in old buildings: during a visit, ask to see them.
