So, you want to buy a house? Here are 5 things to avoid

Rose coloured spectacles, do yourself a favour, crush them underfoot. They should not feature at all in your armoury. At some point or another you will come to the crashing realisation that reality is very actual and harsh.

Overspend. 90% of all construction projects go over budget or over time or both. Please take someone like me with you when you view a house. This can save time and money in the long term and carries with it the added benefit of, have paid a fee, giving you information that endures. The type of information about realistic costs is something that can easily be translated to other projects.

Over-optimism. This can kill a purchase. Some people’s ideas should never leave the drawing board. Although it sounds harsh but someone like me can rein in some of the more extravagant ideas. I’m not here to rain on your parade, but please be realistic.

Not seeing the warning signs. Pitfalls are plenty and varied. All they need is naivete and cash, the rest is simple. Many people start projects that should be left alone, even professionals steer clear of these.

Not planning ahead. Sounds simple, but not planning properly can destroy your dreams and create nightmares. Undertaking projects that start off as easy and short and go on and on can create sleepless nights.