It’s absolutely vital when you’re doing a visit to any potential property to keep these things in mind:
1. Utilities and general condition: Check the water pressure and electricity by turning the taps on and off and flicking the light switches. See whether the property has a new fuse box and individual energy and water counters. Make sure the walls, heating and drainpipes are all in a good condition, because if everything is in working order now, you can avoid nasty surprises in the future.
2. Orientation and location: Is the property well-connected to local supermarkets and schools and by public transport? Is it north- or south-facing? Note that this detail could have a great influence on how much you spend on heating and electricity.
Things to know before you go
3. Paperwork: Try to acquire a cadastral check from the Land Registry (Conservatoria e Catasto), a condensed report of the property details including a brief description of the land and property features, as well as telling you who the owner is. By having one of these, you can ensure the person selling you the house is the real owner and that the sale is legal. It will also tell you about any mortgages or extra hidden fees of any kind that come with the property.
4. Know the price per square metre or square foot:The local municipality sets the property taxes, IMU, TASI and TARI, according to the cadastral value, so be aware that if the final sale price will rise due to all the extra taxes on top.
In any case, it's advisable to take an estate agent along with you to the viewing as an expert eye that knows exactly what to look for and how best to help you get the most out of the viewing.
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