Why Is It Important to Conduct a Proper Survey Before Buying a Home? 

by | Aug 24, 2023 | Real Estate

Purchasing a home is one of the most significant financial commitments many of us will ever make. Amid the excitement and emotion of choosing a place to live, it’s easy to overlook certain practical aspects of the buying process. One of these oft-overlooked steps is conducting a proper home survey.  

Why Is It Important to Conduct a Proper Survey Before Buying a Home? 

However, skipping or hastily going through this step can lead to unforeseen issues and expenses down the line. Here’s why a thorough home survey is indispensable before making a home purchase according to the best real estate lawyers in Hamilton Ontario Canada: 

1. Uncovering Structural Issues:  

The most apparent reason for a survey is to identify structural problems with the property. These can range from minor issues like small cracks in the walls to more significant concerns such as subsidence, which can be costly to rectify. A survey can detect these problems, giving the buyer an informed perspective before planning. 

2. Providing Financial Leverage:  

If a survey highlights certain problems with the property, it can provide a potential buyer with negotiation leverage. Knowing the issues beforehand allows the buyer to either negotiate a reduced price, consider repair costs, or request that the seller fix the problems before finalizing the sale. 

3. Revealing Legal Boundaries:  

Many disputes among neighbors arise from boundary issues. Conducting a proper survey can clearly define the boundaries of a property, ensuring that you know exactly what you are buying. This can prevent potential disputes and issues later on, such as encroachments or shared responsibility for boundary features like fences or walls. 

4. Avoiding Future Costs:  

Hidden issues like dampness, woodworm, or roofing problems might not be immediately apparent during a casual viewing or even a detailed inspection. However, they can lead to significant future costs if not addressed. A comprehensive survey, particularly a full structural one, can uncover these latent issues, helping the buyer avoid unexpected repair bills after moving in. 

5. Discovering Local Environmental Factors:  

Certain areas may be prone to environmental factors such as flooding or landslides. A good survey can inform a potential buyer about these risks. Knowing such information beforehand is crucial, not just for immediate decision-making but also for considerations like insurance coverage and future property value. 

6. Insights on Property Value:  

A survey can give insights into whether the property is valued appropriately in the current market, based on its condition and comparison with similar properties in the area. This information is crucial for buyers to ensure they are making a sound investment and not overpaying for the property. 

7. Planning for Renovations:  

If you’re considering buying a property to renovate or extend, a survey can provide valuable information about what can and can’t be done. It can highlight potential issues, such as shared walls, underlying structural concerns, or restrictions due to the property’s location or type. 

8. Uncovering Historical Issues:  

Older homes may have a history of problems or repairs. A thorough survey can delve into past issues, revealing any recurring problems, previous structural modifications, or concerns that have been addressed but might resurface. 

Conclusion: Why Is It Important to Conduct a Proper Survey Before Buying a Home? 

While it might be tempting to save on the cost of a survey or expedite the buying process, the risks of foregoing a proper home survey far outweigh the benefits. Investing time and money in a comprehensive survey can provide a clear picture of what you’re truly getting into. It offers peace of mind, ensures a sound financial commitment, and can save a significant amount of money and hassle in the long run. 

As the old adage goes, “Forewarned is forearmed.” Before making one of life’s most significant investments, arm yourself with the knowledge that only a proper home survey can provide.