Neighbours

When investing in a property, you are not only buying bricks and mortar, but also the immediate surroundings, which are significantly influenced by your neighbours. Having good neighbours is one of the key factors to selling you’re house and boost its value, whilst bad neighbours can knock as much as 10% off the price.

Upon buying, it’s worth enquiring about a seller’s relationship with the neighbours, and sellers should always be transparent when answering a buyer’s inquiries, as an omission can lead to problems. If a neighbour’s property looks untidy and unkept it may put off potential buyers.

The following pointers might help you avoid future problems with potential neighbours

1. How well do the neighbours maintain their property and garden?
2. Could any bordering hedges be a potential sticking point? If so, you need to investigate this.
3. Find out if the surrounding properties are rented or owner-occupied. If rented, what is the turnover of residents, and are they likely to be as interested in maintaining a good relationship with their neighbours as an owner-occupier might be? 
4. Are the neighbours planning any building work that might interfere with your personal space and privacy? If so, you need to investigate this.
5. Do they have loud parties? A walk-past on a Saturday night might be useful.
6. Do they have numerous loud children running round their garden on a sunny day when you want to enjoy your own garden?
7. Is there a pub or club that creates noise nearby?

Tidy, friendly and courteous neighbours will undoubtedly contribute to a more pleasant living environment, so a little research before you buy can pay dividends and add not only to your enjoyment of your new home, but also to its value.