Do you dream of becoming a homeowner in Liège but are afraid of choosing the wrong property and bitterly regretting it? The experts at BIV Immobilier have prepared a list of 10 mistakes to avoid if you are about to buy a property.
1. Not setting a precise budget from the outset
Have you just started your search? Know exactly how much you can spend, including notary’s fees, taxes and the cost of any work. To do this, make an appointment with your bank to confirm your financial capacity based on your income, your deposit, your borrowing capacity, etc.
2. Having too many criteria on top of your must-haves
You risk missing out on very attractive properties that meet almost all your criteria and that you could truly fall in love with. Don’t narrow your search too much from the start.
3. Overlooking the location of the property for sale
Find out as much as you can about the location of each property that interests you: the neighbourhood, the neighbours, transport, shops, safety, planning projects... That way you can be sure of a quality of life that matches your expectations. A good location also promises a better capital gain in the long term!
4. Ruling out properties that are slightly over your budget
If you like a house or flat but it is just above your budget, don’t let that stop you. You can always make an offer and, if it is accepted, buy it for less than the asking price.
5. Allowing too little time for the viewing and viewing only once
A single viewing is generally not enough. Ideally, view the property you are interested in at different times of day to get a feel for the light, the noise, the atmosphere... Take your time to observe everything, prepare and ask all your questions!
6. Forgetting the technical aspects of the property
You shouldn’t just examine each room carefully; you also need to carry out a technical inspection of the property. If you are not an expert, call in a professional to detect hidden problems (damp, electrics, roof...). The mandatory inspections are not always sufficient.
7. Not looking closely enough at the co-ownership
If you are buying a flat in a building or any other property in co-ownership, ask for the minutes of the last general meetings to find out about the works that have been voted, the service charges and any disputes.
8. Getting carried away by emotion
This is a major investment involving a large sum of money! A property purchase should not be taken lightly, or you risk having regrets for years. Even if you have fallen head over heels for a property, step back, compare, talk it over with your loved ones and don’t rush.
9. Waiting too long before making an offer
Conversely, if a property meets most of your criteria, you really liked it during the viewing, it fits your budget and it has no major structural defects, you are probably not the only interested buyer and you need to make an offer before the property is put under option.
10. Underestimating the importance of the sales agreement
It is a decisive document in any property transaction: read it carefully and be sure to ask your notary all your questions. Make sure that all the necessary conditions precedent, such as obtaining bank financing or the sale of a previous property, are included in it.
Would you like to buy a property in Liège? BIV Immobilier is here to guide you: browse the listings and contact the agency !
