Tips for buying an apartment

Tips for buying an apartment

Before viewing the apartment:

1. Current maintenance costs: Check the exact amounts of payment for utilities and Department of Housing and Utilities. The difference can be significant! (for example, 400 zł versus 1300 zł for 50 sq.m.)

1. Current maintenance costs: Check the exact amounts of payment for utilities and Department of Housing and Utilities. The difference can be significant! (for example, 400 zł versus 1300 zł for 50 sq.m.)

2. Planned Repairs: Ask the seller what they think needs repairs to avoid surprises after purchase.

3. Neighbors: If possible, talk to neighbors to learn about the atmosphere in the residential area.

4. History of the apartment: Find out whether the apartment underwent renovations, replacement of utilities, or insulation of the building.

5. Legal issues: Make sure that the apartment is free of debts and other encumbrances.

6. Registered persons: Find out who is registered in the apartment and whether it is possible to sign them out. 7. Plans for development of the area: Find out if there are plans for construction in the near future that could negatively affect the comfort of your stay.

8. Location: Orientation of windows/terrace, location relative to staircase/elevator.

During the inspection:

1. Thorough inspection of technical condition: Look for cracks, dampness, and defects in utility lines.

2. Checking the functionality of all devices: Electrical, heating, water, ventilation.

3. Noise level assessment: Noise from the street, from neighbors, from the stairwell.

4. Inspection of the basement and attic: The condition of the utility rooms belonging to the apartment.

5. Ask questions: Don't be afraid to ask about anything that interests you!

Remember:

• Not asking questions can cause you to miss important points and face problems in the future.

• Carefully analyzing the proposal and asking questions is the key to a successful transaction.

• Don't buy an apartment under time pressure - give yourself time to think about the decision.

Additional tips:

• Make a list of questions before your inspection so you don't miss anything.

• Take someone with you to help you assess the condition of the apartment.

• Do not sign any documents without reading them carefully.

• If in doubt, seek advice from a lawyer or realtor. Buying an apartment is a serious decision. It's worth taking the time to thoroughly check the offer and ask all the necessary questions to avoid disappointment in the future.

Frequently asked questions when searching for real estate:

Are common:

• What is the area of the apartment?

• How many rooms are there in the apartment?

• On what floor is the apartment located?

• What floor is in the house?

• What year was the house built?

• What material is the house made of?

• Is there an elevator in the building?

• How many entrances are there in the house?

• Is there parking?

• What infrastructure is located around the house (shops, schools, kindergartens, hospitals, transport)?

• What form of payment is possible?

• Is bargaining possible?

About the apartment:

• What repairs have been made to the apartment?

• What materials were used in the renovation?

• Are there any deficiencies in the apartment?

• What is the layout of the apartment?

• What is the height of the ceilings in the apartment?

• What is the kitchen area?

• What is the area of the balcony/loggia?

• Is there a storage room?

• What plumbing is installed in the apartment?

• What household appliances remain in the apartment?

• Is furniture included in the price of the apartment?

• Are there any problems with communications in the apartment (water, electricity, heating)?

• What is the sound insulation in the apartment?

• Is it warm in the apartment in winter?

• Is the apartment spacious?

• Is the apartment bright?

About documents:

• Does the apartment have a cadastral passport?

• Does the apartment have any encumbrances (mortgage, pledge)?

• How many owners does the apartment have?

• Do all owners agree to sell the apartment?

About the deal:

• When will it be possible to see the apartment?

• When will it be possible to book an apartment?

• When will it be possible to enter into a deal?

• What documents are needed for the transaction?

• Who will pay the costs of the transaction (notary, registration)? In addition to these questions, you can ask any other questions that interest you.

Remember:

• The more questions you ask, the more information you will receive and the better you will be able to assess whether this apartment is right for you.

• Don't be afraid to ask "uncomfortable" questions, even if they seem obvious to you.

• Do not hesitate to ask the seller to provide documents confirming his words.

• If necessary, seek assistance from a lawyer or realtor.

Good luck finding an apartment!

Real estate agency OKEASK will be happy to help you with this!