Have you recently made the decision that it’s time to pack up and move to the Isle of Man? If so, you aren’t alone, as this Isle has become somewhat of a trendy spot to live as of late. Known for its stunning scenery, breath taking beaches, a robust job market, and an impressive school system, this tiny spot is doing a lot to attract newcomers.

With that said, it can be hard not to get wrapped up in the excitement of it all and buy the first property you see just so you can proceed with your relocation. Here’s the thing, buying real estate is never something anyone should rush into. The last thing you want is to end up in a house that is filled with issues you didn’t anticipate and that costs you more in repairs than you budgeted for. So, as you go about your house hunting journey, here are a few red flags to watch out for.

Look at the Condition of the Boiler

The condition of the boiler in the home can be an issue. Depending on how old it is and when it was serviced last, you could be signing up for problems. A boiler service on the Isle of Man isn’t a huge problem, as you can call in a professional like Pipeline Plumbing to make the necessary repairs or replacement. You just want to be sure you understand what the cost could amount to.

Obviously, hiring a plumber on the Isle of Man is an added expense, but that expense will vary depending on whether your boiler just needs general maintenance, or if you’re looking at having to replace the entire boiler. Pipeline Plumbing always recommends that homeowners schedule regular maintenance on the boiler, so if the previous owners skipped this important step then you could be in for problems.

Signs of Water Damage

Another thing to watch out for is signs of water damage. People tend to associate this sort of issue with older homes, but in reality, water damage can happen to any home. Tell-tale signs of water damage include a strange colour on the ceiling or walls, texture on the walls or ceiling, bubbling of the area, or a spongy feeling. Even if it’s just a small spot, water damage repairs can still be a pretty big job.

DIY Repairs in the Home

Here’s one that may be a little harder to spot, so you really want to keep an eye out for the signs. Look for DIY repairs, which are repairs that have been done by an amateur such as the homeowner. While some may be cosmetic and easy to fix, others such as electrical and plumbing are a much bigger issue since they need to carried out according to specific regulations.

How Does the Roof Look?

You will also want to walk the outside perimeter of the home paying close attention to the roof. Look for signs of wear and damage to the shingles and flashing, as a roof in need of repair can add thousands to your renovation budget.

Knowing the red flags to watch for when house hunting can save you a lot of hassle, headaches, and money in the end.

We’re very proud to bring you this feature in association with Pipeline Plumbing and Secure Restoration. For more property-related tips and advice, please pay a visit to our interiors page.

*Image by: Secure Restoration.