A guide to apartment hunting

If you are looking to move into a new apartment for the first time then there are many things to bear in mind. In fact, it can be easy to get lost amidst all of the information you receive about floor space, layout, management fees, tax . . . the list goes on.

If you are ready to take the leap into your first home, let us help you take stock and get a handle on priorities before you make a very big decision.

1) Narrow your search

When it comes to finding the right home for you, make sure you start with location, location, location. It may sound like a cliché but there really is nothing more important than starting your future in an area you love.

If you can identify two or three towns or districts that appeal to you, make those the focus of your search. It may be that these locations are close to work, have great amenities, boast brilliant transport links, are near the best schools or just feature a quaint little pub that you’ve always wanted to make your local. It may even be that you want to be in an area on the up, where you expect to see property prices increase and ensure that you enjoy a handsome return on your investment when you come to sell years in the future.

2) Figure out your priorities

We all have our own idea of what makes the perfect home. Some like an open plan living space, others want a balcony and some simply want as many bedrooms as they can afford. Whatever your priorities are, make sure you write them down and keep them front of mind before you start searching. If you are buying a new build apartment with your partner, there’s a good chance that you have different preferences, so it is crucial that you work towards a happy medium before you even set foot in your first property.

If nothing else, this saves time spent traipsing round with an estate agent to view a raft of properties that simply don’t work for you.

3) Keep a checklist

Everyone knows that you shouldn’t simply jump at the first property you see. It’s important to view a few properties so that you can judge the pros and cons of a selection of apartments. However, how you measure those qualities takes some organisation.

A checklist can be a great way of assessing those properties you see and allow you to make a practical and pragmatic decision. Document everything from asking price to floor space in order to analyse things on a like-for-like basis.

5) Extra Costs

While the headline cost of purchase is undoubtedly the biggest expense you’ll face as a buyer, other bills can add up to make a significant difference to your monthly outgoings. These may include council tax, utility bills, insurance and any management fees for the apartment block.

Tot these up before you put an offer in on a house so you can realistically see if a property is affordable for you.

6) Have a really good rummage

Many people are afraid or embarrassed to go snooping round a new home when they request a viewing. However, if you fail to spot something problematic, you may regret it weeks or months later when you’ve parted with your hard-earned cash.

Check out details such as storage space, lighting, bathroom furniture and room layouts. If a property has a balcony or a large window, don’t just think about the view (although that is clearly important) but also consider whether it is South or West facing. This can make the difference between a light and welcoming space and a dark, dour one.

Are you thinking of making the move to Edinburgh then Quartermile’s luxury serviced apartments should certainly be on your viewing list. Our stunning 1–4 bedroom apartments are perfect for those who want to be part of a vibrant community in the Scottish capital.

Why not book your appointment today on 0845 000 2525.