How to make the most of every property viewing
How to make the most of every property viewingViewing a property is one of the most exciting stages of the home buying journey. But it’s easy to get swept up in the moment and overlook key details. Knowing what to look for, and what questions to ask, will help you make a confident, informed decision.
Here’s how to approach property viewings like a pro.
Before the viewing: Preparation is key
Before the viewing: Preparation is keyA successful viewing startsbefore you step through the door. Make sure you:
before you step through the door✔Check the listing carefully– Review the floor plan, photos, and property description to spot any red flags early.
Check the listing carefully✔Drive by the area– Visit at different times of day to check for noise, parking, and general feel.
Drive by the area✔Know your deal-breakers– List yourmust-havesvsnice-to-havesso you stay focused.
Know your deal-breakersmust-havesnice-to-haves✔Have your finances ready– If you love the property, you need to be in a position to act fast.
Have your finances ready💡Tip:If a property ticks 7 out of your 10 boxes,it’s worth serious consideration.
Tip:it’s worth serious considerationWhat to look for during a viewing
What to look for during a viewingIt’s easy to be impressed bystaging and décor, but remember you’re buying the property, not the furniture. Pay attention to:
staging and décor🏠Structural issues– Look for cracks, damp patches, or signs of subsidence.
Structural issues🔌Electrics and plumbing– Check switches, water pressure, and the boiler’s age.
Electrics and plumbing🌳Outdoor space– Consider privacy, maintenance, and potential restrictions.
Outdoor space🚗Parking and access– Will it work for your lifestyle? Is it shared or allocated?
Parking and access🔈Noise levels– Can you hear neighbours, traffic, or construction?
Noise levels💡Tip:Take photos or notes during the viewing - you’ll forget details later!
Tip:Key questions to ask the Estate Agent
Key questions to ask the Estate AgentAn estate agent’s job is tosellthe property, so ask the right questions to uncover important details:
sell🔹Why is the owner selling?– A quick sale might give you room for negotiation.
Why is the owner selling?🔹How long has it been on the market?– If it’s been listed for months, find out why.
How long has it been on the market?🔹Have there been any recent offers?– This helps you gauge competition.
Have there been any recent offers?🔹What’s included in the sale?– Fixtures, fittings, blinds, and white goods?
What’s included in the sale?🔹Known issues with the property?– Sellers must disclose significant problems.
Known issues with the property?🔹Running costs?– Ask about council tax, utility bills, and maintenance fees.
Running costs?💡Tip:You can purchase a home information pack from Open Moove!
Tip:What to do after a viewing
What to do after a viewingDon’t rush into a decision - but don't linger too long. If there's a lot of competition you'll likely have to make a decision within 24 hours.
✔Compare it to your other viewings– Does it meet most of your criteria?
Compare it to your other viewings✔Discuss with your conveyancer or mortgage broker– They can offer insight.
Discuss with your conveyancer or mortgage broker✔Arrange a second viewing– If you’re interested, try visiting again.
Arrange a second viewingWhat Open Moove suggests next
What Open Moove suggests next• Prepare before your viewing by researching the property and area.
• Ask key questions to uncover any potential issues before making an offer.
• Take notes and photos to compare properties logically, not emotionally.
• Download the Open Moove app to track your home buying journey and access expert guidance every step of the way.
