![Pinterest](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https://uknews.evprotec.com/9-first-time-buyer-warning-signs-that-reveal-hidden-issues-costing-thousands/&media=https://uknews.evprotec.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/KS_OP_expert-property.jpg&description=HOUSE THAT Published : 9:31, 13 Aug 2023 FAST increases to interest rates mean taking the first step on to the ladder is no mean feat right now. Mortgage rates may have dropped a little since highs seen earlier in the summer, average two and five-year fixes remain well above levels just a year ago. 1 James Forrester share the signs to watch out for during a property viewing For those first timers lucky enough to be in a position to buy, it's easy to get caught up in the excitement of hunting for a home. But there are some red flags you need to watch out for during a viewing. Fail to notice the tell-tale signs on problem properties, and you could find yourself faced with hefty bills for DIY or remedial work further down the line. Some problems could even make it hard to get a mortgage to buy the house or flat in the first place. As a newbie to the buying process, it can be hard to know what to look out for, according to James Forrester, managing director of estate agent Barrows & Forrester . The property expert told The Sun: 'Buying your first home is a daunting task, and it's important to appreciate you won't know every trick in the book. "That said, there are a few key warning signs you can watch out for that could indicate something is wrong with the property.' First, the onus is on you to do your research. James explains: 'Never be afraid to prod and probe, and to ask as many questions as you want. 'Ultimately, the viewing process is your opportunity to really get an idea of the home you could be about to buy – and what work may need to be done to it once you move in.' If there are minor issues with the property, this needn't stop you from buying it – as long as you know these can be remedied. 'The key is to know what these are before you make an offer,' said the property supremo. 'That way, you can take the cost of sorting them into account – and deduct this from the asking price. "Fail to spot the red flags, and you could end up with a bill running into ten){kind=link}
FAST increases to interest rates mean taking the first step on to the ladder is no mean feat right now.
Mortgage rates may have dropped a little since highs seen earlier in the summer, average two and five-year fixes remain well above levels just a year ago.
For those first timers lucky enough to be in a position to buy, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of hunting for a home.
But there are some red flags you need to watch out for during a viewing.
Fail to notice the tell-tale signs on problem properties, and you could find yourself faced with hefty bills for DIY or remedial work further down the line.