1. Look Deeply into the Core! (House Structure)

Don't just look at whether the house is beautiful and luxuriously decorated; you need to look deeply into its structure as well!

• Cracks: If you find cracks, do not overlook them! Especially large, diagonal cracks or bulging walls are clear signs of danger! The house might be subsiding, the piles might be damaged, and you'll definitely have problems.
• Is the house leaning? Observe the floors, walls, and ceilings. Are they slanting, sinking, or looking crooked? If so, get out of there quickly!
• Is the roof leaking? Check the roof tiles. Are there any cracks, breaks, or leaks? Don't forget to check the roof structure as well.
• Water flowing, lights on? Turn on all the faucets, check the water pressure, look for clogged pipes or leaks, and also try turning on the lights, switches, and outlets to see if they work normally.

Tip: If you're unsure, call a technician to help check it. It might cost a bit, but it's much better for your peace of mind!

2. Are the Documents Complete and Accurate?

No matter how beautiful the house is, if the documents are incomplete, it's a dead end!

• Original Title Deed: Check that the owner's name on the title deed matches the seller's. Also, check what type of deed it is, e.g., Nor Sor 3 Kor.
• Debts, lawsuits? Investigate whether this house has any encumbrances, such as mortgages, usufruct rights, or outstanding common area fees, water, or electricity bills.
• Was it built legally? Ask to see the construction permit.

Tip: Request copies of documents from the seller and check them at the Land Department. This is 100% certain.

3. What are the Neighbors Like?

A beautiful house, but bad neighbors, means you won't live in peace!

• Observe the neighbors: See what the neighbors are like. Are they noisy? Do they seem scary or nice?
• Convenient travel? Try driving to the house and check the routes. Is it easy to get in and out? Is there a lot of traffic?
• Close to food and amenities? See if it's close to hospitals, schools, or markets.
• Does it flood? Check the history. Does that area flood often? Is it safe?

Tip: Try visiting the house at different times: morning, noon, evening, and late night, to get a real feel for the atmosphere.

4. Hidden Costs Are Nasty!

It's not enough to just prepare money for the house! You also need to budget for hidden costs, otherwise, you'll definitely go over budget!

• House repairs: Accurately estimate the cost of repairs and renovations.
• Home decoration: If you want to decorate beautifully, you need to set aside money.
• Transfer fees: Don't forget the property transfer fees.
• Social taxes: Study the taxes on buying and selling houses as well.

Tip: Add an extra 10-20% of the house price to your budget so you don't run short!

5. Be Patient, Don't Rush!

Seeing a beautiful house you like and rushing to buy it can lead to mistakes! Take your time and think it through carefully.

• Look at many places: Don't make a decision if you've only looked at one place.
• Consult experts: Ask experts or people who have bought houses before.
• Think thoroughly: Take your time to consider, don't rush.

Tip: Even if you fall in love with the first house, look at other options just in case you find something better!