**Channel 4’s Phil Spencer Offers Crucial Guidance for House-Hunters**
House-hunters searching for their next home would be wise to exercise caution and attention to detail, according to Channel 4 presenter Phil Spencer, who has issued a series of practical recommendations for anyone approaching the property market. As a host of the long-running show Location, Location, Location, Spencer is familiar to millions and well-regarded for his insightful advice to prospective buyers. His latest guidance comes as the demand for homes across the UK remains robust, yet concerns about hidden problems are on the rise.
Speaking through his business platform, Move iQ, Phil Spencer has leveraged social media to reach out to the public, providing accessible advice through a recent TikTok post. He stressed the importance of looking beyond a property’s surface appearance. “Before you fall for the décor, you need to pay close attention to what’s underneath,” Spencer highlighted, warning buyers not to get swept away by beautiful interiors at the expense of thorough inspections.
One of Spencer’s top cautions relates to damp and mould, issues which can lurk beneath fresh paint and are sometimes deliberately concealed by sellers. He urged buyers to inspect the corners of ceilings and along skirting boards, suggesting viewers look for tell-tale signs of recent painting which may be hiding water damage. Indications such as patchy paintwork or an uneven surface may warrant a more detailed investigation or a request for information from the current owner.
Structural integrity is another point of emphasis in Spencer’s advice. Buyers are advised to look carefully for cracks in the walls. As a rule of thumb, Spencer noted, “If you can fit a 10p coin into a crack, it could be serious.” While not all cracks represent major issues, larger gaps could indicate underlying structural problems that should not be ignored and may merit professional assessment before proceeding.
Practical assessments shouldn’t be overlooked either. Spencer encourages potential buyers to test the water pressure by turning on taps during their viewing, advocating for a hands-on approach to investigating the property’s plumbing. “Don’t forget the water pressure,” he said, noting that a reasonable water flow not only improves everyday living but also hints at overall system health. He also suggested checking windows and doors, ensuring the seals are tight and that there are no significant drafts that could result in heat loss or discomfort.
Turning to electricity, Spencer recommends buyers take stock of the number and placement of plug sockets and light fittings throughout the property. Such practical details are often only noticed after moving in, yet can be crucial in determining whether a home truly suits one’s day-to-day living needs.
Flats require particular scrutiny, according to Spencer. He highlights the importance of viewing communal spaces, assessing their condition and upkeep. Clean and well-maintained corridors and exterior grounds may suggest responsible management and considerate neighbours—key factors in multi-occupancy buildings. Buyers are also advised to listen for noise from adjoining flats, ideally by visiting at different times of day to gauge the true living environment.
When it comes to the actual moving process, Spencer provides a trove of practical hints on his Move iQ website. Chief among his suggestions is the creation of an ‘essentials box’ for each household member—containing toiletries, phone chargers, basic kitchen supplies, and other immediate needs. This simple step, he notes, can ease the chaos of unpacking and ensure necessities are at hand when most needed.
Finally, Spencer highlights the importance of safe packing. He warns movers not to overfill boxes in an attempt to minimise their number, pointing out that excessive weight increases the risk of injury and damages possessions. As a general rule, boxes should not exceed 15kg, unless otherwise specified by a removals company, and each should be checked for manageable weight before moving. By spreading heavy items among several containers, buyers can make the moving day safer and less stressful.
In sum, Phil Spencer’s advice encompasses both the emotional and practical facets of house-hunting and moving. His recommendations are a timely reminder of the need for vigilance, patience and preparation at every stage of the property journey.