The Ultimate Guide to Property Viewings: What to Do Before Viewing a Home

When it comes to finding your dream home, property viewings are a crucial step in the process. Whether you're a first-time buyer or an experienced property investor, understanding how to prepare before viewing a property can save you time, money, and potential headaches. In this guide, we'll walk you through the essential steps to take before viewing a property to ensure you make the most of your visits.

Why Property Viewings Matter

Property viewings are your opportunity to see a potential home in person, assess its condition, and imagine how it might fit into your life. Photos and virtual tours can only tell you so much; there’s no substitute for walking through the space yourself. Here are some key reasons why property viewings are so important:

1. Assess the true condition: Pictures can be deceiving. Viewing a property in person lets you spot any issues or hidden gems.

2. Get a feel for the space: Experience the layout and size of the rooms to see if they meet your needs.

3. Evaluate the neighborhood: Check out the local area to ensure it suits your lifestyle and preferences.

Steps to Take Before Viewing a Property

Preparation is key to making the most out of your property viewings. Here’s a checklist of what you should do before viewing any home:

• Define Your Requirements

  • Budget: Determine your budget and get pre-approved for a mortgage if necessary.

  • Must-Haves: List your non-negotiable features (e.g., number of bedrooms, garden, proximity to schools).

  • Preferences: Note down features you would like but can compromise on.

• Research the Market

  • Local Prices: Check recent sale prices in the area to understand market value.

  • Future Developments: Look into any upcoming projects that might affect the neighborhood.

• Shortlist Properties

  • Use property websites and apps to create a list of potential homes.

  • Read descriptions carefully and compare features against your requirements.

• Schedule Viewings

  • Arrange viewings for multiple properties in a single trip to save time.

  • Consider visiting at different times of the day to see how the area changes.

• Prepare Questions

  • For the Estate Agent: Ask about the property’s history, reasons for selling, and any known issues.

  • For Yourself: Think about what you need to know to make an informed decision.

• Gather Necessary Documents

  • Bring a notepad and pen for notes.

  • Have your ID and proof of mortgage pre-approval ready.

What to Look for During Property Viewings

While viewing a property, keep an eye out for the following:

• Structural Integrity: Look for cracks, dampness, and signs of disrepair.

• Plumbing and Electrical: Test taps, flush toilets, and check light switches.

• Storage Space: Ensure there’s enough storage for your needs.

• Natural Light: Notice the amount of natural light in each room.

• Noise Levels: Listen for any disruptive noises from neighbours or nearby roads.

Making the Most of Each Viewing

• Take Photos and Videos: Capture details you might forget later.

• Discuss with the Agent: Ask about utility costs, council tax, and any additional fees.

• Imagine Your Life There: Picture your furniture in the rooms and consider how you would use the space.

After the Viewing

• Review Your Notes: Compare your findings with your initial requirements.

• Follow Up: If you have further questions or need clarifications, contact the estate agent.

• Trust Your Instincts: Sometimes, a property just feels right—or wrong. Trust your gut feeling.

By following these steps before viewing a property, you'll be well-prepared to make an informed decision. Happy house hunting!

For more tips and advice on property viewings and other aspects of home buying, be sure to check out our other blog posts and resources at beforeviewgs.com