A house is a big decision. Once you have bought it, you need to be confident in your decision to have bought that home, and to feel that you can happily live in it or rent it out. If you want to buy a home, here are some things to think about when looking around properties:

• Think about security. Does the home have a solid front door and good, sturdy windows? Is there a gate? Is it within a gated complex to help prevent people coming in and committing thefts in the neighbourhood? If not, consider whether there is the potential to improve security easily.
• What kind of condition is the property in? Look at things like flooring and see whether you would need to lay new flooring. If it is wood, might it just clean up?
• Is there good insulation? A cold, damp property isn’t going to be a good investment. See if you can spot signs of a damp problem.