What should you look for when viewing a property?
When viewing a property, it is easy to get swept up in the excitement and overlook critical details. Here is our guide to what you should be looking for when you view a property.
Looking for a new home can be a very exciting and emotional process, as you begin to say goodbye to your old home and picture your life in a new one. You may have nailed-down the location and type of property you are looking for and you are now ready to start viewing homes.
Buying a house is a huge financial investment, and not one you want to get wrong. So, it is important to ensure that you view properties with both your head and your heart. Follow these top tips to make sure you get the most out of a viewing:
Take your time - Walk through the property more than once, balancing your initial enthusiasm with a more critical second look. Often, it is your heart that leads you on that first look around. So use your head and think more objectively on your second look around the house. It may help to bring along someone objective, like a friend who can point out potential issues you might miss.
Photograph - key areas if permitted, helping you recall details later. Note your initial impressions and any specific measurements you need for furniture. Whilst the estate agent may have provided you with some photos of the property, it is likely there are other areas you haven’t seen before and it might be useful to see photos of again, so get snapping!
Ask questions - a good estate agent will be able to answer any questions you have whilst you are viewing the property. How far is it to the nearest shop? Is there a good primary school nearby? What are the transport links like? How old is the boiler? What kind of heating system do they have? All of these things can help you make a balanced decision on whether the house is right for you.
Look past the decor - it is important to look past the furniture and decoration in the house and to focus on what is beyond that. Structural integrity is crucial, so look for visible defects like dampness, large cracks in the walls or roof damage, although a professional survey is essential. Things that may seem small can make a big difference when you actually live in a home, for example; what is the water pressure like? Is there good phone signal? Does the area have a good WIFI connection?
Enjoy the process of viewing houses, it can often be fun and exciting! But do maintain a balance between dream and reality to avoid buyer’s remorse. Over 30% of property sales fall through, often due to buyers rushing decisions. Remember, a well-considered choice will be more satisfying in the long run.
If you’re serious about finding the right property, why not register with By Design. We can keep you updated on properties that match your criteria, helping you stay ahead in your search.
