In need of renovation or move in immediately? How to check the condition of the property

Buying or renting a property is a significant step. One central question is: Is the property in need of renovation, or can you just pack your bags and move in immediately? To make this decision based on solid grounds, it is essential to take a close look at the condition of the building. This article will detail which aspects you should consider and how to find out if the property meets your expectations and needs.

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Why is the Condition Assessment So Important?

A house or apartment is always connected to emotions. However, you should not rely solely on your gut feeling. A systematic condition assessment reveals whether there are hidden defects that could turn into costly problems later on. Additionally, it gives you a realistic impression of whether investments in renovations or modernizations are necessary – and if so, to what extent.

With a thorough inspection, you can save not only money in the long run but also nerves. Furthermore, you can rely on concrete facts during purchase price or rental negotiations.

"Those who pay close attention before signing a contract often save themselves nasty surprises and protect their budget from unplanned expenses."

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The Most Important Areas of Building Fabric

When entering a property, it's beneficial to proceed step-by-step. Here are the central areas you should examine:

• Foundation and Basement: Look for cracks in walls and floors, signs of moisture, and mold. Moisture in the basement may indicate poor waterproofing.
• Exterior Walls and Façade: Are parts of the facade brittle or flaking? Cracks in the exterior wall indicate structural problems or movements in the masonry.
• Roof and Roof Structure: Check for missing tiles, visible stains in the attic, or rotting wooden beams. An intact roof is essential to avoid moisture damage.
• Windows and Doors: Leaky windows or warped doors increase heating costs and decrease living comfort. Test all windows and doors for functionality.
• Floors and Walls: Look for uneven floors, loose tiles, or cracks in walls and ceilings. Drywall should be firm and show no signs of moisture.

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Checklist for Technical Equipment

In addition to the building fabric, the technical equipment is also a crucial criterion. Here are some points to pay special attention to:

1. Heating System: How old is it, and what are the expected energy costs? An outdated heating system can be an expensive renovation case.
2. Sanitary Installations: Check if the pipes have been modernized. Old pipes are prone to rust and leaks and can incur high repair costs.
3. Electrical Installation: Do the fuse box and wiring meet current requirements? Older installations may need to be replaced for safety reasons.
4. Ventilation: In modern, well-insulated buildings, adequate ventilation is important to prevent mold growth. Is there a controlled residential ventilation system?

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Financial Aspects: Renovation Costs and Immediate Move-In

Whether a property is immediately ready for occupancy or in need of renovation heavily depends on the required measures and their costs. If a comprehensive renovation is necessary, it is worthwhile to plan a separate renovation budget. This way, you can estimate the financial reserves you will need to bring the property to the desired condition.

Here is a sample table of possible renovation measures and their rough cost estimates per square meter (values without guarantee and depending on region and property condition):

Measure	Approximate Costs in CHF/m²
New Windows	400 – 800
Roof Renovation	200 – 400
New Heating System	150 – 300
Renew Electrical Installation	80 – 150
Complete Bathroom Renovation	800 – 2,000

Based on these values, you can roughly calculate if the purchase price or rent makes sense when you additionally need to invest in extensive renovations. Sometimes it is worth buying a seemingly cheap property, even if you have to invest afterward—especially if there is potential for value appreciation.

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When is Expert Knowledge Required?

Not everyone is skilled enough in craftsmanship and technology to recognize hidden defects. Professionals can provide valuable support. This can include architects, civil engineers, or construction managers.

Even though a professional assessment is initially an investment, it can quickly pay off if it helps avoid expensive renovation mistakes. The assessment usually details:

• The condition of the individual components
• Which short-term and long-term renovations are necessary
• How high the expected costs are likely to be

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Practical Tips for Your Viewing

Often, a single viewing is not enough to form a complete picture. Here are some tips on how to proceed step by step:

1. Gather Preliminary Information: Request floor plans, energy certificates (if available), and site plans.
2. Visit Multiple Times: Evaluate the property at different times of the day to assess lighting conditions and noise sources.
3. Document Thoroughly: Take photos and notes to ensure you don't forget anything later when making your decision.
4. Consult Experts Early: If you discover potential defects during the first viewing, it’s worth bringing in a professional early on.

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Conclusion

Whether a property is in need of renovation or immediately ready for occupancy depends on numerous factors. A thorough examination of the building fabric, an evaluation of the technical systems, and a financial calculation of the possible renovation costs are essential to ensure long-term satisfaction.

An appropriate purchase price or fair rent can quickly lose its attractiveness if significant and unforeseen renovation costs arise. Conversely, a comprehensive renovation can also be a lucrative investment if the property has great potential for appreciation. Ultimately, the decision lies with you and your personal needs. However, with careful analysis, you can ensure that you neither experience unpleasant surprises nor miss out on opportunities.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When should I definitely involve an expert?
If you have no experience with building fabric and technology, or if visible defects such as cracks, moisture, or damage in the construction are present, a professional assessment is recommended.

What to do if the seller cannot provide documents on modernization?
Insist on more transparent documentation. If there are significant uncertainties, you should invest a bit more time or involve an expert.