First-time Buyers Consultation

The property purchase process typically involves finding a suitable property, making an offer, signing a preliminary agreement (konvenju), conducting due diligence, securing financing, and signing the final deed. As Periti, we assist with technical assessments, documentation, and ensuring the property meets your requirements before you commit to purchase.

From signing the preliminary agreement to the final deed, the process typically takes 3-6 months. This allows time for due diligence, securing financing, and addressing any issues. Planning for renovations or alterations may extend this timeline.

Beyond location and aesthetics, assess structural integrity, plumbing and electrical systems, damp issues, and renovation potential. Our pre-purchase assessment service helps identify these technical aspects that might not be immediately visible.

Our structural assessment service identifies critical issues before purchase, including foundation problems, rising damp or water ingress, roof deterioration, modifications to load-bearing walls, subsidence, previous substandard renovations, and structural cracks (as distinct from cosmetic surface cracking). By detecting these common structural concerns early, clients can avoid significant costs and complications that would otherwise arise post-acquisition.

No, load-bearing walls are essential for structural integrity. Removing or modifying these requires professional structural engineering design and often reinforcement measures. As architects and structural engineers, KUBU can accurately identify which walls are load-bearing and provide solutions for open-plan designs while maintaining structural integrity.

Our structural assessments include visual inspection of accessible structural elements, identification of cracks and deformation, assessment of foundation conditions where visible, examination of roof structures, and evaluation of previous structural modifications. For properties with significant concerns, we may recommend more detailed investigations, including non-destructive testing.

Most significant renovations require planning permission, though some minor internal works may fall under permitted development. Structural changes, facade alterations, and changes of use typically require planning approval. Properties in Urban Conservation Areas (UCAs) have additional restrictions. We can advise on specific requirements for your property.

Properties in UCAs have stricter regulations regarding facade alterations, materials, window designs, and structural modifications. Traditional features often need to be preserved, and any changes must be sympathetic to the building's historical character.

An EPC evaluates a property's energy efficiency and is legally required when selling or renting a property. As registered EPC assessors, we can provide this certification. The EPC provides two ratings: energy use on a scale from 0kWh/m².yr to 280kWh/m².yr and carbon dioxide emissions from 0 kg/m².yr to 70 kg/m².yr. A lower rating means better energy efficiency and less carbon emissions.

Renovation costs vary significantly depending on the property's condition and desired changes. Factors affecting costs include the extent of structural work required, quality of finishes, and complexity of service installations. We provide detailed cost estimates as part of our pre-purchase consultation service.

Older properties, particularly those over 50 years old, often require updated electrical systems, modern plumbing infrastructure, damp treatment, roof repairs or replacement, and structural reinforcement to accommodate contemporary living standards. Our technical assessments identify these potential costs before purchase, allowing clients to make informed decisions and develop accurate budgeting for necessary improvements.