Home: Top 10 questions to ask when viewing a house for sale

Here is a quick-fire guide for house hunters on the lookout for their dream home

1. Why is the seller selling up? This is a logical question that could bring a variety of answers. Presume you will be talking to the agent who is likely to be discreet and upbeat. They are working for the seller.

2. Are there any changes to the Local Development Plan that will affect the immediate area? You may have to chase this one down yourself. It’s all online. The results could be troubling depending on your point of view.

3. What services are there? This could be the distance to the nearest bus stop, broadband speeds, a convenience store, or the location of the national school. What matters to you?

4. How is the water pressure? If there is no mains supply, this can be especially important, as remedial work — for example installing a whole house pump will have to be considered.

5. What are the neighbours like? There’s no legal obligation in Ireland for the agent to tell you about problems with adjoining properties. Have a glance around for clear neglect, and visit at different times of the day.

6. If viewing an apartment, are there covenants in place? Can you keep animals for instance? What annual maintenance charges are there if any?

7. What’s included in the sale? Don’t assume it’s all fixtures and fittings unless that’s specified. If there’s something extra you’re interested in, tell the agent.

8. If there is a BER Advisory Report, can you have a copy to consider after viewing?

9. Have there been extensions carried out to the building? When were these done and what were the square metres? Forty sq m is the collective cut-off point for extending, so anything more will require PP.

10. What not to ask? Don’t demand to speak to the owners themselves. Communicate any questions the agent cannot answer through them, and let them get back to you.