Common Traps in Fit-Out Descriptions: What to Watch For

Typical Traps in Fit-Out Descriptions: What to Watch For 🧐

When buying property, the "fit-out" or "specification" section can hide important details — and expenses. Sellers and developers often use broad terms that leave room for different interpretations. This guide helps you spot common traps and gives a practical checklist for inspections and closing.

What fit-out usually covers

• Base or final finishes — the boundary between them is often vague.
• Built-in appliances and sanitaryware — may be listed as "included" or "optional."
• Doors, flooring, light fixtures, radiators, and sockets — sometimes excluded.
• Common areas and landscaping — crucial for investors assessing long-term value.

Key things to check in listings and contracts ✅

1. Precise wording. Terms like "turnkey," "partially finished," or "pre-finish" should be clarified with exact items.
2. Itemized lists. Ask for specific models or at least quality classes when equipment or appliances are included.
3. Warranty and service. Who handles defects and within which time frame?
4. Transfer of responsibility. Define when the developer’s liability ends and the buyer’s begins.
5. Extras and exclusions. Parking, storage rooms, balcony finishing — these are often billed separately.

Practical inspection checklist 📝

• Bring the contract or specification to the viewing.
• Photograph the condition of walls, floors, piping, meters, and installed appliances.
• Test electrical outlets and switches by turning on lights and basic appliances.
• Run taps and check water pressure and hot water availability.
• Inspect the quality of finishes: wall straightness, corner joints, floor evenness.
• Request acts for concealed works — they confirm that plumbing and wiring were inspected.

Common phrases and what they may mean

• "Pre-finish" — surfaces prepared but no final materials included.
• "Final finish" — basic finishing included, but premium materials may be extra.
• "Without built-in appliances" — no kitchen appliances unless specified.

How to handle modifications and extra costs 📌

• Specify in the contract how additional work is agreed and invoiced: deadlines, unit prices, and acceptance procedure.
• Request written estimates and material samples for any extra finishes.
• Reserve a buffer in your budget for finishing touches often required after handover.

Tips for buyers vs investors

• Investor: pay attention to common areas and infrastructure completion — they affect resale and rentability.
• Future resident: clarify which works are needed to be truly "move-in ready" — this impacts move-in timing.

Documents to request

• A detailed specification list of what is included.
• Handover act listing the actual condition and any defects.
• Certificates and warranties for built-in devices and materials.

Useful questions to ask the seller/developer

• "Can you specify what ‘final finish’ includes?"
• "Which appliances are included by brand or model?"
• "Will common area works be completed before handover?"

Final reassuring advice ❤️

Buying a home can feel overwhelming. Clear, specific documentation reduces uncertainty. Insist on written confirmations, take photos during inspections, and make sure the acceptance act matches the agreed specification. If anything is unclear, ask for clarifications in writing.

If you’d like professional assistance reviewing a specification or evaluating a property in Georgia, BuyHome agents can help prepare the right questions and checklists. Browse properties or start a search: https://buyhome.ge/en/apartments or visit https://buyhome.ge/en to get in touch — we’re here to help with your purchase or investment.