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What to look for before buying a second-hand apartment

The key points that you cannot ignore

Buying a second-hand apartment can be an excellent option: more reasonable prices, consolidated areas and the
possibility of moving in almost immediately. But it also has its risks if you don’t know what to look for.

In this article we tell you what aspects you should carefully review before making a decision. Because what is not
you see during the visit it can cost you very expensive later.

1. The real state of the home

The photos in the advertisement do not always tell the whole truth. During your visit, look out for:

• Walls and ceilings: Look for moisture stains, cracks or chips
• Floors: Are they level? Are there loose tiles or raised flooring?
• Windows: Do they close well? Are they double glass or old?
• Doors: Open and close them all, check that they fit

Visible defects usually hide others that cannot be seen with the naked eye.

2. Facilities: water, electricity and gas

Old installations are one of the most expensive renovations. Ask and check:

• Electricity: Does the panel have a differential and magneto-thermal switches? Are there ground connections?
• Plumbing: Open faucets and check the pressure. Are the pipes made of lead, iron or copper?
• Heating: What system do you have? Age of the boiler?
• Gas: Does it pass the review? When was the last inspection?

Ask for utility bills to get an idea of real consumption.

3. Humidities: the hidden enemy

Moisture is one of the most common and expensive problems. Look for signs of:

• Stains on ceilings (especially on top floors)
• Chipping or bulging paint on walls
• Moisty or moldy smell
• Excessive condensation on windows
• Stains on the lower part of the walls (capillary dampness)

If you see signs, ask directly. And if there are doubts, consult a professional before buying.

4. Orientation and natural light

Something you cannot change later is the orientation of the floor:

• South: Lots of light all year round, hotter in summer
• North: Less direct light, cooler but can be dark
• East: Morning sun
• West: Afternoon sun

Visit the apartment at different times if you can. Light completely changes the appearance of a home.

5. The building and common areas

You don’t just buy a flat, you buy part of a building. Check:

• State of the portal, stairs and elevator
• Facade: Does it need rehabilitation? Are there cracks?
• Roof and covering (especially if it is the top floor)
• Garage and storage rooms if you have them

A building in poor condition means future spills.

6. The community of owners

Before buying, find out about:

• Monthly fee: Is it reasonable for the services it includes?
• Spills: Are there any approved or planned?
• Debts: Are there delinquent neighbors? How is the treasury?
• Minutes: Ask for the latest meeting minutes to see what topics are discussed

A problematic community can make your life miserable for years.

7. The environment and the neighborhood

The apartment may be perfect, but if the neighborhood doesn’t fit you, you won’t be happy. Rate:

• Public transportation and parking
• Schools, shops and services nearby
• Noise (traffic, bars, leisure areas)
• Safety and neighborhood environment
• Urban planning plans that may affect the area

Walk around the neighborhood at different times and days of the week.

8. Legal documentation

Before signing anything, be sure to check:

• Simple note from the Registry: Confirm the owner and whether there are charges or mortgages
• Energy certificate: Mandatory and gives you clues about insulation
• IBI: Check that you are up to date with payment
• Licenses: If there have been renovations, were they done with permission?
• Certificate of habitability: Essential to contract supplies

Any legal problem can delay or even prevent the purchase.

9. The price: is it realistic?

Compare with other similar homes in the area:

• Price per square meter
• Conservation status
• Age of the building
• Extras (garage, storage room, elevator, terrace)

A price well below the market may indicate hidden problems. A very high price, a poor seller
realistic.

In summary

Buying a second-hand apartment requires looking beyond the surface. Don’t get carried away just by the decoration
or the pretty photos. Look at the structural, the facilities, the building and the neighborhood.

And when in doubt, ask. It is better to lose an opportunity than to be burdened with a problem for years.