10 Things About Viewing Properties You’ll Kick Yourself For Not Knowing

When buying a new home, it is important to make the most of your viewing. This meeting will allow you to assess whether the property fulfills your requirements. It will also enable you to ask pertinent questions and gather as much information as possible. This will inform your decision whether or not to make an offer.

1. Visit The Property Before The Viewing

Once you have checked the listings and found desirable apartments for sale, phone the vendor and arrange a viewing. Before the appointment takes place, it is a good idea to head over there to check the exterior and surrounding area. Things to look for:

• Presentation of the exterior and whether it is in a good state of repair
• Garden or shared external areas
• Neighbouring properties
• The neighbourhood and local amenities

It is not necessary to alert the vendor as you won’t need to gain entry to the property. At this stage, you’re just looking at the exterior.

2. Create A Checklist

Before the viewing, sit down and create a checklist. This should include all the features that are a priority for you. These are the deal breakers that you can’t live without. You should also include items that are desirable but not essential.

3. Put Emotions To One Side

During the initial viewing, try to be objective. Even if you fall in love with the place, put these feelings to one side. They could make you overlook faults. The viewing should be an inspection of the building at this stage.

4. Don’t Let Faults Put You Off

Faults shouldn’t immediately send you running for the hills. Look at the issue and think about what it would take to put it right. If you’re happy with all other aspects of the property, consider reducing your offer to take the fault into consideration.

5. Ask Questions

Put together a list of questions in advance. Don’t be afraid to ask them all. The more information you gather, the better informed you will be.

6. Arrange A Second Viewing

Always arrange a second appointment. Some buyers view properties multiple times before making an offer. Set up viewings at different times of the day. This will allow you to see how the light affects the property. It will also provide information such as traffic noise and other external factors.

7. Look At The Building

Walk around the whole building and look for problem areas. Things to be aware of are cracks, damp, missing tiles, etc. Look at the ceiling and skirting boards. Other telltale signs are musty smells and flaking paint. Don’t be embarrassed about being thorough. This will demonstrate your interest.

8. Storage Space

Storage space is important, particularly if you have a lot of possessions. Work out how much storage space is available. Look at things like loft space, built-in cupboards, etc.

9. Are There Enough Power Points?

As you’re looking around, make sure there are enough power points. At the same time check out the condition of the wiring. Rewiring can be costly, and this should be taken into consideration if you make an offer.

10. Don’t Be Fooled

Sellers will present their properties in the best possible light. Don’t be tricked by staging such as the use of big mirrors to create the illusion of space. Or the use of aromas to create a welcoming atmosphere. There is nothing wrong with creating a good impression. Just make sure you can see past it.

Never be afraid of carrying out a thorough assessment and asking questions. It will demonstrate your interest and your approach to buying.