You’re about to buy a house, and suddenly everyone’s banging on about property searches. Are they just trying to squeeze more money out of you, or are these searches actually worth their salt? Let’s cut through the waffle and get to the meat of the matter.
Table of Contents
What Are Property Searches?
Property searches are like a health check for your future home. They dig up information about the land, local area, and potential risks that could turn your dream home into a nightmare.
The Big Three Searches
- Local Authority Search: Uncovers planning permissions, road schemes, and local developments.
- Environmental Search: Reveals contamination risks, flooding potential, and land stability.
- Water and Drainage Search: Shows water supply and sewerage information.
Each of these searches brings something different to the table. They’re like pieces of a puzzle, giving you a full picture of what you’re buying into.
Use the code PropertySaviour to get 5% off.
Are They Really Necessary?
If you’re buying with a mortgage, your lender will insist on certain searches. They want to protect their investment, and so should you.
For cash buyers, searches aren’t legally required. But skipping them is like buying a car without looking under the bonnet. You might save a few quid now, but you could be in for a nasty shock later.
What Could Go Wrong?
Here’s a quick look at what these searches might uncover:
| Search Type | What It Reveals | Potential Issues |
|---|---|---|
| Local Authority | Planning permissions, road schemes | Unexpected developments, road widening |
| Environmental | Contamination, flood risks | Uninsurable property, health hazards |
| Water and Drainage | Water supply, sewerage connections | Costly connection issues, flood risks |
The Price of Peace of Mind
Searches typically cost between £200 and £400. It’s a small price to pay when you’re shelling out hundreds of thousands on a property.
How Long Do They Take?
Searches usually take 2-3 weeks to complete. Factor this into your timeline to avoid any last-minute panics.
Tips for a Smooth Search Process
• Order searches early: Get the ball rolling as soon as your offer is accepted.
• Budget for it: Include search costs in your overall moving budget.
• Ask questions: If anything in the results is unclear, grill your solicitor.
Property Search Direct, a reputable search provider, offers an enhanced residential pack that covers many of these crucial searches. This pack is designed to give home buyers a comprehensive overview of potential issues or liabilities associated with a property.
It’s worth noting that Property Search Direct is currently offering 5% discount on their enhanced residential pack when you use the code “PropertySaviour”. This can be a cost-effective way to ensure you’re getting thorough, professional searches conducted.
Property Searches Direct Discount Code
We have been inundated by buyers and seller’s solicitors on how we can turn around searches so quickly? So we have decided to reveal our secret.
Use the code PropertySaviour to get 5% off.
Can I buy a house without doing searches?
Yes, if you’re a cash buyer. But it’s like skydiving without checking your parachute – risky business.
What if the searches reveal problems?
You can often negotiate with the seller to fix issues or reduce the price. In severe cases, you might decide to walk away.
Use the code PropertySaviour to get 5% off.
This is a fantastic company/business/website providing an extremely useful service for Property Buyers. Every type of Search is available online through Property Searches Direct. The service is easy to use, fast, efficient and comprehensive. Daniel, the CEO of the Company, is so incredibly helpful and knowledgeable and can offer expert advice due to his years of experience in the Property Business . He goes out of his way to provide an exceptional service to clients. I can highly recommend Property Searches Direct. I am very grateful that I came across this Website. Thank you Dan for the help you gave me in my Property Search.
Elizabeth Evans
In a nutshell, while property searches might not be legally mandatory for everyone, they’re a wise investment. When you’re spending hundreds of thousands on a property, spending a few hundred on searches is just good sense. It could save you from buying a money pit or a future headache. So, don’t skimp on the searches – your future self will thank you.
