Top Questions Home Buyers Should Ask Before Purchasing a House in Nottingham

Are you considering buying a house in Nottingham? Congratulations on taking this exciting step towards homeownership in one of the country's vibrant cities! 

To ensure a successful purchase, it's crucial to gather all the necessary information about the property and the local area. In this blog post, I will guide you through the top questions that I would ask before buying a house in Nottingham.

1. What is the condition of the property?

Assessing the condition of the property is crucial before making a purchase. Engage a qualified home inspector familiar with properties in Nottingham to thoroughly examine the house if you feel that you are not knowledgeable enough in this discipline. They will evaluate the structure, electrical systems, plumbing, and any potential issues requiring repairs or renovations. Ask about the age of the roof, the condition of the heating and cooling systems, and the overall state of the property. Understanding the property's condition will help you estimate additional costs and negotiate a fair price.

2. What is the neighbourhood like?

Getting to know the neighbourhood where the property is located is essential for a happy and fulfilling life in Nottingham. Consider asking the following questions:

• Are there nearby amenities like schools, parks, shopping centres, and medical facilities? Inquire about the quality of nearby schools and any upcoming developments that could enhance the neighbourhood's appeal.
• What is the crime rate in the neighbourhood? Check with local authorities or visit online resources to get information about crime statistics in the area. Do a few drive-bys at all different hours to see for yourself.
• How accessible is public transport in the area? Find out about bus and tram routes, as well as the proximity to train stations, if applicable.
• Are there any future development plans that may affect the neighbourhood's character or property values? Research any planned infrastructure projects or commercial developments that may impact the area's atmosphere and property prices.

3. How old is the property, and has it undergone any renovations?

Knowing the age of the property and any renovations it has undergone is important for understanding its maintenance requirements and potential upgrades. Inquire about the age of key components, such as the electrical wiring EICR, plumbing, gas safety certificate, boiler and windows. Is there any known asbestos at the property? Ask if the property has been recently renovated, including details about the scope of the renovations and the quality of workmanship. Consider any necessary repairs or updates that may affect your budget and future plans for the property.

4. Are there any specific planning or conservation area restrictions?

Nottingham has specific planning regulations and conservation areas to protect the city's heritage and character. Ask about any planning or conservation area restrictions that may affect modifications or renovations you have in mind. Many investors/buy-to-let landlords have come unstuck when finding out about Article 4 too late.  Inquire about any listed building status that may impose additional restrictions on alterations. Understanding these regulations will ensure your plans align with the property's permitted uses and restrictions, avoiding potential issues down the line.

5. What are the council tax rates and any other local charges?

Understanding the financial obligations associated with the property is crucial. Inquire about the council tax rates for the specific area where the property is located. Council tax rates can vary based on the property's valuation band and local authority. You can find this information online.  Additionally, ask about any other local charges or fees that may apply, such as parking permits or waste collection fees. These costs can impact your monthly budget, so it's important to consider them before finalising the purchase.

6. Have there been any previous issues with subsidence or flooding?

In certain areas of Nottingham, subsidence or flooding may be a concern. Ask the seller or estate agent about any history of subsidence or flooding issues in the property or the surrounding area. If there have been any such incidents, inquire about the measures taken to address and prevent them. Look for evidence of repair work or flood prevention systems, such as flood barriers or improved drainage. Understanding the property's vulnerability to these risks will help you make an informed decision and potentially prevent any issues with your mortgage lender or insurer. 

7. Are there any issues that might prevent a mortgage from being granted on the property?

It's crucial to ensure that the property you're interested in is mortgageable. Certain issues can arise during the mortgage application process that might affect the lender's decision. Ask the following questions to avoid any potential obstacles:

• Is the property freehold or leasehold? Some lenders have restrictions on lending for leasehold properties, especially if the lease term is short or there are onerous ground rent clauses.
• Are there any restrictions on the property? Find out if there are any occupancy restrictions, such as limitations on renting out the property or using it for commercial purposes. Certain properties, such as ex-council or shared ownership, may have restrictions that lenders consider before approving a mortgage.
• Does the property have any legal issues or disputes? It's crucial to ensure that there are no ongoing legal disputes, such as boundary disputes or unresolved planning permission issues. Lenders may hesitate to approve a mortgage if there are unresolved legal matters affecting the property.
• Has the property passed a valuation survey? Mortgage lenders will conduct a valuation survey to determine the property's value and assess its suitability as collateral for the loan. Ask if the property has passed a valuation survey and if any issues were identified that may impact the lender's decision. Remember, estate agents put a marketing appraisal figure on the property, mortgage valuations can be a whole different ball game.
• Is the property in a good state of repair? Lenders may require the property to be in a certain condition before approving a mortgage. Major structural issues, dampness, or extensive repairs needed may cause the lender to decline the mortgage application. Ensure that the property meets the lender's criteria for habitability and condition.
• Be mindful not to get too excited when agreeing on a purchase price with the vendor. If you have offered and agreed on a price higher than your lender will value the property at, you will either have to re-negotiate with the vendor, find the difference yourself to top up the funds, or pull out of the sale altogether. Remember that the estate agent may have told the vendor what they wanted to hear in terms of the marketing price for the property in order to secure the instruction. This may not be a true valuation of the property in the current market and what the lender will agree on. 

By addressing these questions, you can identify any potential issues that might prevent a mortgage from being granted on the property. This will save you time, effort, and potential disappointment in the mortgage application process.

In conclusion, buying a house in Nottingham requires careful consideration and thorough research. By asking the right questions, such as assessing the property's condition, understanding the neighbourhood, considering any renovations or restrictions, being aware of the council tax rates and local charges, and addressing any potential mortgage issues, you'll be well-prepared to make an informed decision. Engaging the services of a knowledgeable estate agent and a reputable mortgage broker can also provide valuable guidance throughout the process. With due diligence, you'll be one step closer to finding your dream home in Nottingham.

Good Luck!

Diane Bialek Managing Director, Norman Galloway Sales and Lettings,  Author, Diane's Nottinghamshire Property Blog