House buying

You'll be visiting dozens, if not hundreds of properties, probably over several months or maybe years.

If there's one you like and you have a doubt about, it may be worth getting it checked out by an architect, however this is not the norm, and you might find that by the time you've done that, it will have been sold to someone else. (good properties in certain areas and price ranges can sell VERY fast).

Pick a solicitor (notaire) now, and go and ask them for advice as to how to make an offer and when to get a property checked out.

Also, get a mortgage offer in place ASAP so you know exactly what you can afford and can move quickly when the time comes.

Hi, yes it's perfectly normal to take an expert for a house viewing, but it's very expensive and they will need anything upwards of an hour at the very least. Last house we sold was seen by three buyers accompanied by three experts.

But you get a reliable warts and all report on how likely the house is to fall down.

Your lawyer will be able to give you some names.