Structural issues? huge project?

snaily99

Hi I'm new to this forum, hope some experienced property buyers may be able to give some insight.

I'm looking to buy a house mortgage free, but as such my budget is pretty low. I'm ready to risk investing in a property needing work if that means I can do it debt free.

I've come across a place with a very low asking price (offers over 25k, whereas usually a similar property in the area would fetch 60-70k). It's cash offers only so clearly there are significant issues, but what exactly is not clear to me. Some of the rooms look a bit wonky and it's on a hill so I'm guessing subsidence. Called the agent and they wouldn't let on, just said you'll have to do your own survey.

This is the place, can someone with more knowhow than me get a better idea of what's up? ---- sorry can't lost link as a new user, but if you search chestnut grove bd2 1bp on Google it'll come up.

Thanks for your help

Snaily

BitterAndTwisted

Snally: the agent has given you the best advice anyone who has never entered the property and is not a qualified RICS surveyor could. Get a survey done. A full structural survey.



http://www.rightmove.co.uk/property-for-sale/property-44175941.html

Slinky

Wow there is something seriously wierd going on in picture 5 isn't there. From your posting I was expecting a run down property, but apart from pic5, I wouldn't have guessed there was anything wrong with it.

lessonlearned

A full survey is likely to set you back about £500, so before you instruct a surveyor and start incurring costs you can actually do a fair bit of investigation yourself.

Picture 5 - subsidence or just a dodgy photo??? Is it in a mining area.

Subsidence would be a deal breaker for me.

1. If you suspect subsidence check with the environmental agency for that street. If they can't shed any light or if they need you to pay a fee for information then contact some insurance companies for quotes. They will be able to tell you if the property is at risk.

2. Go back for another visit with a builder in tow. The house is empty so you should be able to have a good poke about.

You can do both of the above without incurring costs.

If you do decide to put an offer in make sure it is "subject to contract and survey.

LADYXXMACBETH

Looking at the map and going to satelitte image there does appear to be mining nearby so possibly built over a mine?