Would you spend just five minutes viewing a property you plan to call home for years? Unfortunately, some buyers do—and later regret it. Don’t let important details slip through the cracks during your viewing.
When viewing a house for the first time, try to remain as objective as possible. Even if it feels like love at first sight, balance your excitement with a clear, realistic assessment of the property. If you’re viewing alone, consider bringing someone for a second opinion, moral support, or simply to share the excitement when you find “the one.”
Here’s what you need to keep in mind when evaluating a potential house:
1. Does the Property Meet Your Needs?
Begin by assessing whether the house has everything you need. Consider the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchen layout, outdoor spaces, and parking options.
2. Are the Rooms Spacious Enough?
Examine the size of the rooms. Will they accommodate your furniture and belongings comfortably? Don’t forget to check for adequate storage solutions.
3. What is the Condition of the Property?
Look beyond surface aesthetics. While decorations and paint can be easily changed, structural issues are harder to fix. Check for signs of dampness, damage, or rot both inside and outside the home.
4. Are Renovations or Repairs Needed?
Determine whether the property requires any renovations or repairs to meet your standards. Pay special attention to key areas like the kitchen and bathrooms, which are often the most expensive to upgrade.
Be thorough—inspect every room, including storage areas, and don’t overlook the exterior. Evaluate the roof, brickwork, and gutters, as well as outdoor spaces like the garden or garage. Be mindful of hidden damage that may be concealed with fresh paint. Also, check the house’s orientation—south-facing homes, for example, are ideal for sun lovers.
If you like the property, make sure to visit it at least twice. A second viewing provides an opportunity to identify details you might have missed. Bringing another person for a fresh perspective is also helpful. For serious buyers, hiring a professional property valuer can uncover potential issues and offer leverage for negotiating a fair price.
5. Ask Key Questions During the Viewing
Not everything about the property will be immediately apparent, so don’t hesitate to ask the estate agent or seller for more details.
About the Sale
- Why is the property being sold?
- How long has the current owner held the property?
- Has the property changed hands frequently, and if so, why?
- How long has the house been on the market?
- What is included in the sale (e.g., fixtures, appliances)?
About the Property’s Condition
- Have any major repairs or renovations been done recently?
- How old is the property?
- What is the condition of utilities in the area like water and electricity?
- Are there any recent refurbishments or redecorations?
About the Neighborhood
- What are the neighbors like?
- How secure is the area?
- Are there any additional fees, such as security or community charges?
- What is the traffic situation in the surrounding area?
- Are there any night clubs or event centres nearby which could be a possible source of noise pollution?
6. Practice Good Viewing Etiquette
House viewings can feel daunting, but proper etiquette will help you build positive relationships with the estate agent or seller. Here are some guidelines to follow:
- Be Punctual: Respect the estate agent’s schedule by arriving on time.
- Limit the Group Size: Bring no more than 1-3 people to avoid overcrowding.
- Offer to Remove Your Shoes: Especially if the home is occupied, this gesture shows respect.
- Ask Before Taking Photos: Always get permission before snapping pictures or opening cupboards and drawers.
- Be Respectful: Avoid criticizing the property in front of the seller or discussing changes you’d make. Take notes discreetly instead.
- Express Appreciation: If something impresses you, let the seller or agent know. This sets a positive tone for future negotiations.
- Cancel Early if Necessary: If you can’t make the viewing, inform the agent or seller as soon as possible to avoid wasting their time.
Conclusion
Taking the time to carefully inspect a property and asking the right questions can save you from costly mistakes. Use this checklist and adhere to good etiquette to evaluate potential homes thoroughly. The more informed you are, the better prepared you’ll be to make a confident and well-informed offer.
