Property Buying Tips

Experience has shown that buyers who prepare a wish list before viewing properties in this competitive and fast-paced market have a higher chance of finding the perfect property.

To help you, we have suggested the kind of things you might like to consider. Decide which items are a must, preferable ones you can flex on, and a priority order. Refer to your list before you book a viewing and take it with you on viewings.

Some of the things to consider but are not limited to: -

• No of bedrooms/bathrooms
• Are you willing to do work to it, if so, how much?
• No of reception rooms
• Is a separate dining room important?
• Conservatory
• Space for an extension?
• Size of the garden – level of privacy. Which way should it face?
• Parking – are you willing to pay for a permit
• Garage/s
• School catchment areas
• Access to local shops, train stations, buses, pubs, etc
• NHBC Guarantees
• The area and neighbourhood – amenities, crime, neighbours
• Energy efficiency/house running costs
• Council Tax Banding
• Road and other transport links
• Environment – e.g., flooding, pollution, etc

Helpful links:

Some of the below-listed websites might be useful once you have started to narrow your search:

West Berkshire Council – Excellent site with a myriad of local information, including school catchment areas

Council Tax Bandings

Google Maps

Environment Agency's website – Environmental information such as the risk of flooding in a particular area, pollution levels, etc.