Choosing a new home, whether it is a luxury house for sale in Kandy or a low price house for sale in Sri Lanka, is a significant decision that involves careful consideration of various factors to ensure it aligns with your preferences, needs, and long-term goals. Here are some important things to consider:

Location:

• Proximity to work, schools, healthcare facilities, and daily amenities.
• Access to public transportation and major highways.
• Safety and crime rates in the neighbourhood.
• Future development plans in the area.

Budget:

• Determine your budget to purchase the house or villa for sale in Sri Lanka and stick to it. Consider not only the cost of the house but also additional expenses like property taxes, homeowners association (HOA) fees, maintenance, and utilities.

Size and Layout:

• Assess the number of bedrooms and bathrooms you need.
• Consider the layout and flow of the house. Does it suit your lifestyle and preferences?

Resale Value:

• Research the historical and projected resale values of properties in the area.
• Consider the neighbourhood’s overall desirability and potential for growth with the Sri Lanka real estate industry.

Neighbourhood:

• Visit the neighbourhood at different times of day to get a sense of noise levels, traffic, and the overall vibe.
• Check local amenities such as parks, grocery stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Schools and Education:

• If you have children or plan to in the future, research the quality of local schools.
• Check school rankings, reviews, and extracurricular opportunities.

Safety and Crime:

• Look into crime rates and safety statistics for the neighbourhood.
• Consider talking to neighbours about their experiences and perceptions of safety.

Future Growth and Development:

• Research any planned developments, infrastructure projects, or changes that might affect the neighbourhood’s character and value.

Commute and Transportation:

• Consider the time and convenience of your daily commute to work or other important places.
• Evaluate the availability of public transportation options if needed.

Local Services and Amenities:

• Check the availability of healthcare facilities, shopping centres, gyms, and other services you frequently use.

Lifestyle and Preferences:

• Consider whether the neighbourhood aligns with your lifestyle, hobbies, and interests.
• Think about the kind of community you want to be a part of.

Resale Value:

• While you might be buying your dream home, it is also important to consider the potential resale value in case your circumstances change.

Home Condition and Maintenance:

• Inspect the condition of the home and consider potential maintenance and renovation costs.
• Check for any signs of structural issues, water damage, or needed repairs.

Homeowners Association (HOA):

• If the property is part of an HOA, understand the fees, rules, and restrictions that come with it.

Natural Disasters and Environmental Factors:

• Research the area’s susceptibility to natural disasters such as floods, earthquakes, hurricanes, or wildfires.
• Consider environmental factors like air quality and noise pollution.

What is most important will vary depending on your individual circumstances, priorities, and preferences. Take your time, do thorough research, and perhaps consult with a real estate agent to help you navigate the process and make an informed decision.

How to assess a new home’s construction quality?

Assessing the construction quality of a new home is crucial to ensure that you’re making a sound investment and that the property will be a safe and comfortable place to live. Here are some steps you can take to evaluate a new home’s construction quality:

• Hire a Professional Inspector: Engage a qualified and experienced home inspector to thoroughly assess the property. They can identify potential issues that might not be apparent to an untrained eye.
• Check for Proper Permits and Documentation: Ensure that the construction of the home was properly permitted and inspected by local authorities. This can help you avoid potential legal and safety issues.
• Examine the Foundation: A solid foundation is essential for a well-built home. Look for cracks, settling, or any signs of moisture issues in the foundation.
• Inspect Exterior Finishes: Check the siding, stucco, brickwork, and paint for signs of quality and proper installation. Make sure there are no gaps or areas that could allow water infiltration.
• Evaluate Roofing and Gutters: Inspect the roof for any missing shingles, leaks, or improper installation. Ensure that gutters and downspouts are properly installed to divert water away from the home.
• Assess Windows and Doors: Look for proper installation of windows and doors. They should be sealed well, open and close smoothly, and have adequate insulation.
• Inspect Plumbing and Electrical Systems: Check for visible plumbing and electrical issues. Look for leaks, water stains, exposed wires, and improper wiring.
• Check HVAC Systems: Test heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems to ensure they are functioning properly. Improper installation can lead to inefficient operation and discomfort.
• Evaluate Insulation and Ventilation: Proper insulation and ventilation are essential for energy efficiency and comfort. Check for insulation in walls, ceilings, and floors.
• Look for Quality Materials: Observe the quality of materials used in finishes, such as flooring, cabinets, countertops, and fixtures. Higher-quality materials tend to last longer and require less maintenance.
• Inspect Finishing Work: Pay attention to the details of finishing work, like trim, paint, and moulding. A well-executed finish suggests attention to detail throughout the construction process.
• Check for Structural Integrity: Look for signs of sagging floors, misaligned walls, or other structural issues that could indicate poor construction quality.
• Research the Builder’s Reputation: Look into the reputation of the builder or construction company. Online reviews, references from previous buyers, and the builder’s track record can provide insights into their work quality.
• Visit Other Properties by the Same Builder: If possible, visit other homes constructed by the same builder to see the consistency of their work quality.
• Ask Questions: Do not hesitate to ask the builder or developer questions about the construction process, materials used, and any warranties or guarantees provided.

Remember that while some issues may be easily noticeable, others may require the expertise of a professional inspector. Investing in a thorough inspection can save you from potential future problems and expenses.