Always have a look in the roof space to identify any problems GETTY IMAGESThe government’s Help to Buy scheme has helped thousands of first-time buyers. However, this summer Kirstie Allsopp, the TV property expert, warned that “shoddy” new-build homes can ruin the dream of home ownership. This year we have highlighted the plight of many families whose joy at moving into a new property had been tarnished by faults that made their homes unattractive or uninhabitable. In some cases they had to move out for months while serious structural repairs were undertaken. Here are ten things prospective purchasers should look for.

Source: The Times July 21, 2017 23:03 UTC