Buying a house is one of the most important moments in a person's life. Many hopes, dreams and money are invested in this decision. However, it's always a good idea to prepare some questions to ask the seller or the real estate agency that manages the property to avoid risks. This article focuses on what to ask before buying a used property in Spain.
1. Why are you selling the property?
Asking the seller or the real estate agent handling the sale why they are selling the house can reveal valuable information. If it is because of a pressing need, for example, they need money urgently, they may be willing to negotiate the asking price. On the other hand, if there are problems with the property or in the homeowners' association, then this information can help you decide.
2. How long has it been on the market?
Asking the real estate agent how long a pre-owned property has been on the market can indicate its attractiveness and price. If it has been on the market for a long time, you may have room to negotiate a lower price.
3. What repairs and maintenance has the house needed?
Ask about the repairs and maintenance carried out and what is required to keep it in optimum condition. This will give you an idea of its general condition and whether you need to make any additional investments in the short term. How long has it been since the walls were painted? Are the pipes and drains in good working order? Ask all the questions you need to.
4. Are there any problems or defects in the property?
This is one of the most crucial things to examine before buying a used or pre-owned home. Structural problems, cracks, damp and leaks can become a real headache if not addressed. If you're not told the truth and discover issues after moving in, you can claim for hidden defects. Here are some key issues to consider:
Structural problems: Ask if there are any structural problems in the home: cracks in walls, ceilings or foundations, problems with the roof or floor structure, or any other issues that affect the building's integrity. Structural problems are often expensive to repair and can compromise the property's safety.
Cracks and damp: Thoroughly examine walls and ceilings for visible cracks. Cracks may indicate structural or foundation problems in the house. Also, ask if there have been moisture problems or leaks. Excessive moisture can cause significant damage, such as mould growth and structural deterioration.
Electrical and plumbing problems: Find out if there are any electrical or plumbing problems in the house. Ask how old the electrical and plumbing installations are and about the materials' quality.
Hire a specialist: Rather than a question, this is a recommendation. Consider hiring a qualified inspector, as they can identify issues you may not notice and provide a detailed report on the property's condition.
5. What are the property's costs?
Ask how much it costs per month to run the property, including taxes, fees, insurance, utilities and community fees. This will help you assess whether you can afford the costs associated with the house.
6. How much is property tax (IBI)?
The Impuesto sobre Bienes Inmuebles (IBI) – or property tax – is a local tax levied on real estate ownership, including homes. Before buying a used or pre-owned house, find out how much IBI you will pay, as this tax can vary significantly depending on the property's location and cadastral value.
7. What is the price, and what is included?
The property's selling price is usually the first question in mind but we also recommend asking if any extra items are included. Although sellers normally take all their belongings with them, ask if they plan to leave anything in the house, for example, electrical appliances. You should also ask if the property includes a storage room and garage.
8. Have any alterations been made to the property?
Before buying, it is important to know if the property has been renovated. Renovations can improve a property's appearance and value but can hide structural or installation problems. Besides knowing what kind of renovations have been carried out, you should also find out if they are well executed. Poorly executed renovations can cause problems in the future, such as leaks, flaws or even structural damage.
9. How much electricity and water does the property consume?
Nowadays, any house on the market must have a mandatory energy certificate. This official document reveals the property's energy rating, which reveals how efficient it is and how much electricity it uses. Ask for specific energy data and calculate how much it will cost to live in that property.
10. Are there any legal or ownership issues?
Find out if the property has pending legal or tax problems that could affect the purchase, such as liens, inheritance disputes, etc. You can go to the Land Registry and request a "nota simple" to check if a property has any encumbrances.
11. Do you have a certificate of habitability?
To verify a property's legality, confirm whether it has a valid certificate of habitability (cédula de habitabilidad). Some properties, such as converted houses, studios and lofts, do not have this document. They are not legally considered habitable, which can lead to problems like not being able to get a mortgage or register for utility bills.
12. What are the neighbours like?
Rapport with neighbours is something to consider before buying a used or pre-owned property. Finding out what the neighbours are like and the community dynamics can make all the difference. Ask the seller or real estate agent about the neighbours and community life. Maybe even talk to some of the neighbours if you get the chance.
13. When can I move in?
Knowing when you will be able to move into your new home is essential to planning the transition and arranging your move. Ask the seller or real estate agent about the estimated move-in date and if there are any pending processes or paperwork that could affect it. Then, you can schedule your move and make the necessary preparations.
14. Have there been any special levies recently?
Levies are extraordinary expenses the owners' associations pay for repairs or improvements to the building or common areas. Ask if there have been any recent expenses or if any are planned. This information is essential for assessing the additional payouts you may incur as a homeowner. For example, probe if the lift breaks down frequently or if many repairs are needed in the common areas, etc.
15. What are the property's characteristics?
Find out all the property's characteristics, such as the m2 of floor space, the bathrooms, kitchen specifications, the floor type, the property's orientation, whether or not there is central heating, whether or not there is fibre optics and any other relevant details. The more information you have about the property's characteristics, the better you can decide whether it suits your needs and preferences. This will also help you compare it with other options available.
16. What is the neighbourhood like?
Although it is normal for sellers to speak highly of or fabricate the virtues of the property's neighbourhood, it is best to ask around and, better still, do your own research. Walk around the area, ask the neighbours, check the parking situation for several days at different times, and have a coffee in the local bars. All these aspects will affect you if you decide to buy the house.