What to look for when viewing a property

When you're viewing a property to buy, it can be a bit daunting. You’re entering someone else’s home and there’s a lot to take in.

But if you are prepared, then it can eradicate some of the nerves. And the more you view, the more relaxed you’ll be. Remember, buying a house shouldn’t be scary!

With our tips, you’ll know what to look for and what to ask!

What to look for when viewing a property

When you find a property that interests you, remember that even though you’ve viewed the photos, cameras can’t always show you everything. At Jill Moore Select Properties we don’t use fancy editing techniques because we want our photos to be honest. But pictures can make rooms look bigger than they really are.

So, before you step into a property, remember to be realistic about what you’re about to see.

Location

You can check out the property’s location before you view. This will not only offer a sense of the dimensions, it also gives you a first impression. For example, are there any issues with the roof or guttering? These can be repaired, but any repairs can make a difference to your offer.

Outside space

While you’re having a ‘pre’ view, check out the outside space. Will it suit your needs? For example, is there space for pets or your children? Is the garden too big for you to look after?

You may not be able to see into the rear garden but by walking past it will give you an idea in advance. All these checks before means you can think of the questions to ask on the viewing. And if it’s really unsuitable, you can cancel the viewing.

Size matters

Seeing a property for real allows you to understand what you’re actually looking to buy. It might be smaller or larger than you thought. And if it’s clearly not going to be suitable, it saves you the task of viewing when you know it’s not going to make your shortlist. It could be in the perfect location but too small, so would an extension work. And is there space for it?

It also gives you chance to work out how close neighbouring properties are as well as the neighbourhood. Is it noisy or nice and quiet? Are other properties well maintained? This gives you a clue to the neighbourhood.

Viewing day

With a little bit of knowledge in advance, you can approach viewing day with a bit more confidence. You’ll know a little bit about the exterior, so you can ask about any concerns.

While looking around the property, there are a few things you need to check:
 

    •    Kitchen: If you’re a keen cook, is there enough worktop space?
    •    Storage: Are there enough cupboards around the property? Ask about any hidden storage space the vendor may not have mentioned to the estate agent.
    •    Lighting: Some people like privacy over natural light. For those who love light, check to see if there’s much coming into the rooms. Are there trees or neighbouring buildings blocking your light? That can be a deal-breaker for many people.
    •    Decoration: The photos may not have shown how loud some rooms are decorated. It’s easy and inexpensive to paint walls, so don’t worry about that. But do check the walls. Are there cracks? Freshly plastered walls can often show light cracking, but subsidence issues produce larger cracks. Getting a home buyer’s report from a qualified surveyor will highlight any serious problems.
    •    Rooms: Will you really be able to fit your furniture in the rooms? Are the rooms of this property larger? Will you need to buy more furniture? These are all questions to ask yourself.

Questions to ask

Once you’ve asked yourself questions, ask the vendor some questions, such as:

    •    Why are they selling the property?
    •    How long has it been on the market?
    •    Has there been much interest?
    •    How old is the boiler and how efficient is it?
    •    Have there been any changes, such as major works like extensions?
    •    How old are the windows and are they guaranteed?
    •    Is the property listed or in a conservation area? There are some properties that have clearly been built in the past 20 years, so no need to ask, but if you’re unsure it isn’t a silly question.
    •    How much is the council tax bill?
    •    Are there any service charges?
    •    How long have they lived there?
    •    Have they already put in an offer on a property? If not, it could be a long wait for them to find their perfect new place, so be prepared.
One thing to ask is if you can take photos and ask if it’s OK to open cupboards or doors. Most people will be fine and refusal isn’t necessarily down to them hiding something, they may like their privacy!

On the day

Making a good impression on a vendor could mean they will be happier to negotiate or prefer you as buyer. Remember to turn up on time, don’t be rude about their choices, don’t bring your extended family to view and offer to remove your shoes when you arrive.

If you need to cancel your viewing, do so as soon as possible because you don’t want to waste their time.

For more information about buying or selling your home, contact us today.