Subject to Survey : House Buying

[norrahe]

Well, if they were supposed to, they didn't.

When the Estate Agent informed them, they said they were unaware.

I assume then that when you have a HIPS done, the person doing it doesn't clamber around the loft, and even if they did, isn't trained enough to spot asbestos ?

of course they're not.

If it's supposed to be in the HIPs and isn't then use the fact that they did not disclose it as leverage.

Do not be afraid to go in guns blazing and negotiate hard.
Other things you might want to look at is how long the house has been on the market
the personal situation of the people selling ( are they desperate to flog it for some reason)
check zoopla to get a reflection on what the house price should be, as people often take the highest price the estate agent will offer and then tack a little more onto it.
Look at similar houses in the area and find out what they sold for.

The asbestos issue is not a small one, if you really want the house then negotiate, but if they fuss about it too much be prepared to walk away, it's not worth it.

[Bagpuss]

Is this house ex-council by any chance?

[Board Game Geek]

Is this house ex-council by any chance?

No idea. Built in 1970. The area is a housing estate, but none of the houses are of the Council type if you know what I mean.

[Bagpuss]

I said that because council houses tend to be full of asbestos. I never leave serious negotiation to the dazzas at the estate agents, your solicitors (conveyancer) won't haggle for you, they usually get the office junior to do the mundane paperwork. I would simply ring up the vendor and negotiate direct. Remember the agents have a vested interest, and are not that bothered that you get the best deal (think recruitment agents and you won't be far wrong). Having said that I wouldn't touch a house that has asbestos in it.

[norrahe]

No idea. Built in 1970. The area is a housing estate, but none of the houses are of the Council type if you know what I mean.

If you want your house to move up in value then it will do so very slowly if it is smack bang in the middle of a housing estate.

Have you had a good look at the area?????

[Board Game Geek]

If you want your house to move up in value then it will do so very slowly if it is smack bang in the middle of a housing estate.

Have you had a good look at the area?????

Aye, we have. It's a nice middle class area, no shops, no gangs of kids, decent motors on people's drives etc. Low crime rate, etc.