If you are planning on buying or selling French real estate you need to be aware of the property inspection or survey.
In France, French property inspections are rare right now. In some countries such as Canada and USA buyers will rarely invest in a property unless they have the property inspected to make sure they know the condition of the building and any potential or current defects.
The future is that many more sales of French properties will rely on the report of the inspector or as it is called in English the surveyor’s report.
In France you can hire an English speaking chartered building surveyor (inspector) to check a property you are planning to buy.
Sellers can potentially receive a better report of their property by using the ten following ideas to improve the property.
NOTE: The French building inspector / chartered building surveyor is hired by the buyer and paid by the buyer so if you are a property owner do not expect the inspector to discuss with you after the inspection the condition of the home since he is not paid by you, if you are the seller.
One
Prior to an inspection make sure you have replaced all blown light bulbs, filled cracks in the walls, repaired door handles and fixed any loose doors, window etc.
Two
Remember to check and fix the roof, repair leaks in pipes and gutters. Get professional help when needed.
Three
Check and repair the inside and outside walls of the building and repair and paint professionally.
Four
Check for and repair any moisture issues, do not try to hide the evidence the inspector will find it with his moisture detecting device.
Five
Review the results of the diagnostic reports and any thing that is not at ‘norm’ get it repaired. Make sure you have a certificate from the repair person or have the diagnostics done again to confirm the problem is fixed.
Six
Repair any steps or carpet or tiles that can be a safety hazard
Seven
Make sure the necessary heat or smoke detectors are working.
Eight
Make sure your heating or air conditioning and hot water system is functioning properly.
Nine
Check for leaking pipes throughout the property and make necessary repairs.
Ten
Make sure the septic field, if you have one, is inspected by an official inspection company and that the company gives you a certificate to show the work is done.
If you would like to locate an English speaking French property inspector or Chartered Property Surveyor simply contact us here for guidance to help you find one in your area of choice.
If you want to learn 50 ways to improve the potential sale price of your home check out this guidebook.
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