Survey

Pulse

Sorry to ask stupid questions all the time, but I'm new to buying. I want to get a Survey done on the house I'm about to buy. Where to I arrange a survey? With the mortgage lender (halifax)? Or with someone else?? Cheapest is best I guess.

The house is approx 20 years old, so what level do I need? I was told basic by the mortgage lender.

When speaking to Halifax, they've said they're doing a valuation on Friday, and that will check for damp, amongst other stuff. Is this enough of a survey? If not, please help!!!


Thanks in advance.

[Deleted User]

I personally wouldnt buy a house without at least a homebuyers survey, even though the house is only 20 yrs old you never know what problems could be hiding. If things were to be highlighted in the survey you can always use that to negoiate a better price.

krispy444

I would get a homebuyers survey done as this is more detailed than a valuation by the lender. The lenders valuation is just to see if the property is worth the money they are lending. It is therefore in your best interest to get a more detailed report done.

angel_eyes_3

I was advised to go for a homebuyers survey, as you are the person the surveyor is accountable to, so if problems occur that they should have picked up, you have some redress.

As far as I understand, a basic valuation is just for the mortgage company to ensure that it can get it's money back if needed. Apparently they still do drive bys with mortgage valuation (don't actually go into house, just drive past it).

I'm sure someone will correct me if I'm wrong on this!

Pulse

Ok, so I need a 'Homebuyers' Survey... Where do I arrange this? With the solicitor, with the mortgage lender, or with someone else?

How much is this likely to cost?

If there is anything wrong with the house, can we negotiate a lower price, even if we've already offered £143,000 and it's been accepted?

ChasingButterflies

Hi,

Our solicitor was able to recommend a chartered surveyor. If you can't find one through a recommendation then try Yell.com and ask for a quote and work from there.

I take it your offer was subject to survey? tbh probably wouldn't make much difference - although I am sure someone will be along who knows the in's and out's.

We had a homebuyers report on our current property which is 14 years old when we bought it last year I think it was £425. Although everything that was pointed out when weighed up wasn't a problem - more lack of maintinence and wear and tear issues - nothing that caused a real problem.

Good Luck!

cattie

If you ask the lender to get their surveyor to carry out the homebuyer's survey at the same time he is there to do the valuation, it will in all probability cost you less than getting a surveyor of your own to go along to do a homebuyer's. So, take this into consideration & if you want Halifax to get their surveyor to do it, ring them asap.

Pulse

Ok, cool. I've contacted Halifax about it, and awaiting a reply. Can anyone recommend one in Swindon?!

Pulse

Thanks everyone! - Just sorted it with Halifax to be on the same day. Costs £490 all in, with the Valuation too (Which was £315 anyway)

Hope this sounds like a good deal to you?

Have to say thanks a whole bunch to cattie, as otherwise I could've wasted more dosh!