Homebuyers are urged to take a builder with them on a second or third visit before purchasing a property to avoid any unpleasant surprises.
Once completed, new owners may find all sorts of problems that need fixing: faulty electrical circuits, plumbing problems, moisture, asbestos, or even structural problems.
After an offer is accepted on a property, buyers often request an independent survey before exchanging contracts.
While this will hopefully reveal unexpected problems, hiring a builder could also uncover potential faults or advise on potential repair or renovation costs.
Andy Simms, a construction expert at MyBuilder (left), says using a builder on a second or third visit could end up saving a potential buyer a lot of money.
Andy Simms, a construction expert on MyBuilder, a site that connects tradespeople with homeowners, says using a builder on a second or third visit could end up saving a potential buyer hundreds or thousands of pounds.
Simms believes anyone thinking about purchasing a new home or new construction should contact a builder for advice before purchasing.
“Buying a home is probably the biggest and most expensive financial decision most of us make,” Simms says.
‘Whatever the condition of the property, from new construction to a building with character, it is always advisable to seek the opinion of a builder.
“They can look at the property from a completely objective point of view, help you estimate the cost of any work you may need or want to do, and check for worrying cracks or other construction issues.”
Is it worth the extra cost?
Although it is not a legal requirement, many home buyers will organize their own survey. Studios typically cost between £300 and £1,500, depending on the level of study required and the size of the building involved.
For many people, taking a builder on a second or third visit will increase this cost, but according to MyBuilder, it is unlikely to exceed £200 for an hour of your time.
What’s more, a builder can help realistically estimate the cost of any potential renovations a buyer may want to undertake, something many surveys typically don’t do.
This can help inform the buyer about the amount they may need to spend on the home, and may even change the amount you want to offer on the property.
This could prove essential, as once an offer is accepted, it is difficult to renegotiate without a credible reason.
Project Tip: A builder can give the buyer a ballpark figure to take into account what they need to spend to make a property their ideal home.
A builder can also identify any serious problems before the buyer arrives at the inspection point, saving them hundreds of pounds should the problem prevent them from proceeding with the purchase.
Amy Reynolds, head of sales at Richmond estate agency Antony Roberts, says: “It is advisable to hire a builder to view a property if it is of high interest and the only remaining issue is how much it will cost to make the necessary changes.”
‘Some builders charge for their time, which is reasonable given the lower chances of getting work on a property not already owned by the interested party.
Expert: Amy Reynolds, head of sales at Richmond real estate agency Antony Roberts
‘Although it can be difficult to get an exact quote on the spot, you can usually get a ballpark figure and a builder can assess whether your ideas are realistic for the property.
“This can save buyers from unforeseen structural or design limitations, such as problems with load-bearing walls, plumbing or electrical systems, that might not be apparent to the untrained eye.
“In addition, a builder could point out potential problems such as damp, subsidence or outdated wiring, which are best discovered before agreeing on the price and paying for the survey.”
Those purchasing new construction may feel that bringing a builder to view the property would be excessive.
However, new construction can equally be plagued by shoddy workmanship and plagued with all sorts of problems.
Problems can include improperly positioned doors or windows, disconnected drain pipes and vents, and improperly positioned capstones that cause water penetration.
Builders, especially those local to the area in which the property is located, may have a good idea of what is possible in terms of building regulations and building permits.
Andy Simms adds: “While this cannot (nor should it) replace a full survey should you proceed with the purchase, it can help you make a fully informed offer and avoid unpleasant surprises in the future.”
‘While a survey is necessary for a purchase, it often only points out potential problems. A good builder with comprehensive knowledge can give you more information about what the problem is, including the cost to rectify it.
“It may also raise issues that make you decide not to make an offer, saving you time and stress.”
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