Flat hunting in London can be thrilling-but it’s also a minefield if you’re not alert to hidden issues. As featured in Yahoo UK’s article on overlooked flat-buying red flags (https://uk.news.yahoo.com/property-expert-reveals-3-red-040000353.html), EBI’s Chief Executive Officer, Elliot Rainbow, highlights the most common mistakes that can turn a dream home into a financial burden.

At EBI (Ernest-Brooks International), we regularly guide buyers through the complex landscape of leasehold terms, service charges, and resale viability-areas where costly surprises often lurk. As Elliot Rainbow explained in the Yahoo interview, “Buyers focus on the interiors and forget the fundamentals-lease length, escalating service charges, or location-specific demand. These are what dictate long-term value.”

The three major red flags flat hunters often miss:

– Short Leases (Under 90 Years)
Leasehold properties with fewer than 90 years left can significantly impact mortgage eligibility and resale value. Extending a lease can cost tens of thousands. EBI’s due diligence reports flag these risks up front.

– Escalating Service Charges
If annual service fees are rising faster than inflation-or if major works are planned-you could be hit with unanticipated costs. We recommend reviewing three years’ worth of service charge accounts before making an offer.

– Poor Local Resale or Rental Demand
A low purchase price doesn’t always mean good value. Some areas suffer from stagnant demand or high turnover rates. EBI uses live market data to assess long-term performance before buyers commit.

Elliot Rainbow adds: “It’s not about avoiding risk-it’s about understanding it. At EBI, we empower clients to make informed decisions backed by data, not just instinct.”

Whether you’re buying your first home or expanding a portfolio, EBI’s expert guidance helps de-risk the process from day one. We offer complimentary buyer consultations, red-flag audits, and one-to-one walkthroughs with our experienced London team.