Scarlette Douglas shares 10 money -saving questions that you have to ask before buying a house

Buying a home can be an absolute mine field, and many homeowners have admitted that they have regretted after buying real estate.

New research from Hive show that the British are the most around the driveway, the garden and the bathroom when you buy, but then they regret having overlooked sustainability.

Almost two thirds (63 percent) admit that environmentally friendly characteristics became a priority after moving in and spent an average of 16,750 GBP for upgrades to create an energy -efficient home. Hive has come together A place in the sun star Scarette Douglas To share the must-ac questions that can help you save in the long run. “In the long run, future -proof your home with sustainable and intelligent solutions can save thousands, ”advises the moderator.

Scarlette's must-ax house inquiries

1. Ask for the EPC evaluation
   Look for an EPC rating of C or higher to avoid costly upgrades later
2. Ask for Smart Tech
   Intelligent thermostats, LED lighting and app-controlled heating can reduce the energy costs-check whether they are already installed
3. Check windows and doors
   Prioritize double or triple glazing, drawing protection and well -sealed frames to reduce heat loss
4. Assess insulation
   Poor insulation leads to greater heat loss, so this is important. Ask for the cavity wall and loft insulation and check for sustainable materials. Don't be afraid to ask for a look at the loft – you have the right to see!
5. Check out the boiler and heat
   A-rating boilers and heat pumps are energy-efficient options. Check whether radiators have thermostatic valves for better control
6. Ask for renewable energies
   Sun collectors can reduce the invoices by up to 70 percent. Check whether you are owned or rented and whether the roof is suitable for future installation
7. Check the house orientation
   A house oriented to the south benefits from natural light
8. Consider building materials
   Bricks, stone and concrete hold warmth well. Green roofs and living walls improve the isolation and regulate the interior temperatures.
9. Look beyond the kitchen island
   They may be impressed by the island worthy of Instagram, but also see the energy-efficient devices of the kitchen (refrigerators with A-ratings, dishwasher, ovens) and check what is included in the sale
10. Examine the water efficiency
    Shower heads with a low river, dual-flush toilet and rainwater collection systems contribute to cutting water waste and lower invoices

Top real estate priorities in the public opinion

1. A driveway – 48%
2. A spacious garden – 42%
3. A separate bathroom – 40%
4. Open kitchen and living space – 35%
5. A walk -in wardrobe – 33%
6. A large supply room – 32%
7. A kitchen island – 29%
8. Large windows and skylight – 29%
9. Insulating window – 29%
10. An old country house – 27%
11. Original fireplace – 26%
12. A Victorian design/layout of the town house – 26%
13. High ceilings – 25%
14. Underbody heating – 25%
15. A balcony – 24%
16. Beautiful kitchen tiles – 22%
17. A Georgian real estate design/layout – 21%
18. Smart Eco -Tech functions -20%
19. A gated input – 19%
20. A free -standing bath – 19%
21. Solar collectors – 19%
22. A traditional door with a brass knocker – 19%
23. Rainwater collection system – 18%
24. Heated soils – 18%
25. A pantry – 17%