This course does not intend to replace a professional pre-purchase inspection, but rather helps potential home purchasers to be able to evaluate if a property is worth pursuing. It is a generic educational course, geared towards residential buildings, but does not cover home units or large multi building developments. Everyone knows the enormous financial investment in purchasing a property, but often vendors and the real estate industry benefit from people making emotional decisions on a purchase.

We learn about looking beyond the footprint of the land to see if there are other factors that may influence a purchase. We consider the topography of the land in question, and what problems or benefits the site may present. Learn to conduct a basic non-invasive assessment of a building structure without necessarily climbing under floors, in ceiling spaces.

We look at tell-tale signs that there may be problems with a building’s performance, and what to consider if a building has had a recent redecoration that possibly covers up issues that may be detrimental to a sale. You should leave this course with a more analytical approach to inspecting a prospective home purchase.

Course Outline:

• All information covered in a single session.

Learning Outcomes:

• Critical evaluation of the area surrounding a prospective purchase.
• Detrimental issues associated with landscaping and topography.
• A greater understanding of issues that might or do affect a building.
• How to limit, but not eliminate, the emotional aspect of evaluating a prospective property purchase.

What to bring:

• Pen and paper

About the Tutor:

‘I hold two trade certificates and have been a licensed builder in NSW for 46 years. I was the director of a building company from 1986 until 1996 that won awards for completed projects. Since 1996 I have worked as a professional building consultant, primarily working with major insurance companies in relation to large or complex residential insurance claims.’ Bernard

Other Information:

• To ensure resources are ready for you at the start of your course, we ask you ideally enrol at least one week before the course commences.
• All courses need a minimum number of students to run ("we try our hardest to get those") . If your course does not have enough students it will be cancelled prior to the commencement and you will be informed.