If you’re seeking an apartment to buy, you have an array of choices in terms of location, height within the building and available amenities, such as an elevator, garden, gym and swimming pool.
The foundation of any search is your decision to buy an apartment or condo off-the-plan, purchase in a brand new complex or to opt for an older building.
Many buyers favour an established building as they generally offer more architectural character than modern apartments.
You may also be anxious about what you’re going to get with a new build. Some buyers see buying an established building as lower risk because you can see exactly what you’re getting.
If you share this fear – and it’s not entirely unfounded – then you should inspect other buildings constructed by the developer so you can see how their work has aged over time.
But don’t assume older complexes will not have issues. Below are a list of things to look for during an inspection, and the actions you can take once you’ve moved in.
- Pay attention to the space offered in each apartment. Usually, it will include the balcony area, so ask an agent to split out the square-footage for interior and exterior space.
- Focus on the layout of the apartment and seek guidance on the process needed to make changes to the floorplan if you want to renovate after you’ve purchased.
- Seek guidance on any previous issue with the spalling concrete, which can perish as steel bars corrode over time. Problems usually occur in the bathroom, where chunks of concrete will fall away from the wall.
- When commissioning a building inspection, make sure the electrical wiring is checked. The wiring must meet safety standards.
- Check the integrity of the plumbing. In a shared building, rectifying an issue may require the consultation with the building’s management committee. Your building inspection should also include assessments of the faucets, showerhead and toilet. Watch for signs of leaks from the bathroom and kitchen in the apartment above.
- Age can diminish the quality of piping and insulation of ducted air-conditioning. Water seepage and condensation is a sure sign you have a problem.
- Pay attention to the wear of the flooring. Smaller apartments often fall victim to worn carpets and dulled floorboards.
- Ground floor apartments often feature heavy security grills on the windows that restrict the light. Check out modern designs and consider an update.