Whether we intend to live in the property for a short time or for many years to come, you need to consider a few things when spending your precious time viewing a potential new home and money. After all, buying a new home is usually the largest investment you will ever make.

As you, approach the property checkout

The structure. Is there any signs of subsidence, cracks, damp, mould, are the roof tiles in good order , does the windows need replacing , or trees that are too close that could cause a problem? If something catches your eye, make a note of it.

Once inside the property-

What is the condition of the floors? Is it possible to check under the carpets?
Is there enough space and storage on offer to suit your needs and any appliance or furniture you may have? Can you get your furniture through the door or up the stairs?
Are there any major repairs needed to make the property fit into your life style? Does it need a new kitchen, bathroom, do you need to extend the loft, or will you need an extension to the property? Will the house need central heating or does it need to be re-wired?
Do you need a garden? Is there enough space in the garden for the children?
Do you or any member of your family have any medical problems? Will the home be suitable for you or them?
Why is the vendor selling or moving?
What facilities are there nearby that you and you family need such as schools, what type of reputations do the schools have? What additional amenities do you require to be on hand?
Does the area have a good reputation?
Talk to the neighbours.

Once you leave the property-

You can use the internet to check out the area.
Are there any plans for any future developments?
Get structural reports done for the property, make sure you lawyer check the deeds, the boundaries, conduct any local authority searches and sort out any administration in connection with the sale. If any things are flagged up, make sure they are sorted out or else they can come to haunt you later.
Go back to the property at different times of the day to see if there are any things that could affect your quality of life once, you move in.
Check the prices of similar properties that have been sold recently in the area you want to buy in.

When all is said and done, you should be able to make your house, flat etc into a home.