More qs from a buying novice - home improvements

[ITriedAnother]

We've found a property we like which had previously been lived in for 30+ years by the same woman. She has passed away and the house is being sold by her nephew.

The house needs improvements and so I am currently trying to work out what might need doing. What sort of things should I be checking? For example, I imagine it doesn't have central heating. I also think I'd need to check if it has double glazing and/or needs rewiring.

If it came to buying, would any of the surveys highlight what needs doing?

Thank you x

Go round and view it. You will see if it has radiators or not . Make notes of things that need addressing . It may be better than you hoped , but if it isn't you don't have to buy it! Or you can rip everything out and start completely afresh, which can be wonderful if you have the budget to do so. ( a great concept planner is invaluable if you do the latter )

A lot of houses may not be totally up to date, but it doesn't mean that any work has to be done straight away (and it doesn't mean they are unsafe either), you can do updates as your budget allows. The description of the house will tell you whether it's got central heating, surely? If it doesn't mention CH, it probably hasn't got any, which is a bit unusual these days. Can you see radiators/heating appliances on the photos?
Things like gas and electric certificates are not standard when you buy (as opposed to renting). If you want the gas and electrics etc. checked you will have to pay for it yourself. If you decide to buy, opt for a full survey (not a homebuyers valuation), this will give you some idea.
Be aware that buying a house being sold because of the death of the occupant can be subject to delays while probate is obtained. Ask if the seller has got probate, and if they haven't, how long are they estimating it to take?