FTB - Freaking out... plus opinion on houses sought

NewShadow

Smodlet wrote: »

Hi NewShadow. I just wanted to let you know I would put money on all four of the properties in your first post being non-standard construction (and I despise gambling)

I believe these are more common in Wales than in other parts of the UK so the mortgage issue may be less important but I would urge you to look for standard (brick) properties as they should present far fewer problems in the future than non-standard ones.

There are plenty of threads on here about the disadvantages of non-standard (concrete) houses. Please consider well before committing yourself.

Good hunting.

Could well be.

Re my currently preferred property - I've had assurance from the seller it's standard construction and - apparently, given I don't have a clue... - the EPC doesn't indicate non-standard.

Until I view the place on Thursday, maybe have a second viewing, maybe decide I like it enough to put in an offer, have the offer accepted, and arrange a survey... I guess we won't know for sure.

Any handy hints on what to look for on the viewing?

There are a few checklists like this knocking around but any hints/tips/advice on how to prepare would be appreciated: https://www.moneysupermarket.com/money-made-easy/how-to-make-maximum-use-of-your-second-viewing/

Smodlet

I am no expert, NewShadow but, if you can look in the loft and you see metal rafters rather than wooden ones, you have a non-standard property and one of the worst kind at that.

Other than that, you could ask the vendors what colour the dust is when they drill into the walls but who can say how truthful they would be? If red, it's probably brick; if black/very dark grey, it's probably breeze block so the outer walls are probably brick; if mid/light grey, it's probably concrete.

I think you really need to do further research: You could google "non standard construction". The first link I found is here. Please bear in mind this is basically an insurance ad but there is a great deal of quite useful information before you get to that. HTH.

If the EA is any use at all, they should know what the properties in their area are made of and advise buyers accordingly... Then again, in an ideal world, they would tell the truth.

itmakessense

A couple of people seemed to find my advice helpful. If anyone needs a good solicitor I thoroughly recommend Jane at Sussex Law Solicitors. Knows everything, brilliant knowledge and full hand holding experience. Agents constantly harass and try to bully her which can only mean she is doing a good and thorough job and refuses to pay any referral fees to agents! As I said before Do Not listen to the agents, they lie!

NewShadow

itmakessense wrote: »

snipped

Let me rephrase the OP - Unsolicited personal business recommendations are not welcome and reek of spam...