Top questions to ask when buying a house

A leading home finding service has suggested a list of questions any potential buyer should be asking as they find their new home.

As the days get longer County Homesearch believes this is still the traditional time to get out there to start looking for your next home.

County Homesearch give their expert views on what questions should you be asking.

• What's the position of the sellers?

"Vital to know if they are time-wasters or toe-dippers. If they are in a hurry to sell it may be easier to negotiate a bargain," says Carol Peett.

• What's included in the sale?

"Your solicitor should find this out - but worth asking - 'are those ornamental garden troughs, the white goods, carpets/curtains and security lights included?"

• Which way does the house face?

"If you like early morning and evening sun an east/west facing house might suit but a south facing garden might be better for your perennials."

• Does the property have its own private drainage?

"If it does you will be responsible for repairs or spillage/environmental damage on other people's land."

• Are the neighbours friendly?

"We go back and check out the property at different times,"says Nic Mills.

"A peak over a fence may reveal a tethered guard-dog whose bark recalls the Baskervilles. Trampolines and toys could mean noisy young children."

• Attics and extensions should raise questions?

"Is there planning permission in place for an attic bedroom or a conservatory?

"If planning has not been obtained it might hamper a sale as solicitors will rightly question whether permission has been granted. Best to know before you start the house-buying process."

• A tranquil house at midday might resemble Brands Hatch during rush hour or the twice daily school runs.

"We are detectives,"says Jonathan Haward.

"We check out rat runs, flight paths or even the presence of kennels."

• Is the house listed and does it stand in an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty or a designated conservation area?

"Easy to find out from the local authority but it may restrict building on an extension or even painting a house the colour of your choice," says Harriet Holden-White.

"Other things to consider include asking about flooding risks, parking, solar panels and whether it is owned by the vendor."