Seven questions to ask during a property viewing

Blog: Seven questions to ask during a property viewing

When you are in the market for a new property, whether that be buying or renting, it is vital to go and see it in person. There is only so much information that you can glean from an online listing or photograph. Aspects such as the character of the neighbourhood, how well your belongings and how large the rooms really feel when you are in them cannot really be confirmed unless you can physically enter the property and see, ask and sense things for yourself.

Property viewings are also a great opportunity to ask questions. Here, in no particular order, are seven questions that you should ask in order to gain a clearer picture about the property, its condition and the surrounding area.

1.How long has the property been on the market?

This will help you work out what the seller’s situation is, and whether or not you will be able to negotiate an advantageous price. Some properties may stay on the market longer due to their size, location or unique features, while others receive little to no interest for different reasons. You can check how long a house or flat has been for sale by looking at websites such as Rightmove or Zoopla. Another key piece of information is whether the property has always been listed at the same price or has had to be reduced. Again, this will tell you how popular, or otherwise, it is and how much you can reduce your asking price.

2.Why are the vendors moving?

Finding out how long the current vendors have they lived at the property is another way to help you work out how much to offer. If they are keen to move and have put an offer on another property, for example, this could help you in your negotiation if you can move quickly and help them meet their exchange date. If they are downsizing or moving abroad, they might be more willing to discuss selling some of the furniture, carpets or contents. Should the house or flat be on the market due to a dispute with neighbours, this is also important to know. By law, a vendor must disclose any relevant disputes with neighbours to potential buyers before the sale goes through.

3.Where is the boiler/central heating/fuse box?

Not only is this a good way to confirm that the property does indeed have a working boiler, central heating system and fuse box, it also helps you find out how old they are. If you ask to be shown the boiler, radiators, fuse box etc., this gives you a chance to note down the make and model for an idea of how old they are. Enquire about any recent replacements or renovations. This can provide insights into the property’s general state of repair and how well the vendors have kept up with upgrades and maintenance.

3.What is the local area/schools/nightlife like?

One or even two viewings may not be enough for you to ascertain what the local area is like. Is it quiet and secluded or lively and outgoing? It could be a good idea to return to the property at different times of the day and night to see what is happening in the vicinity. Priorities around schools, public transport, night life and more will clearly depend on your personal circumstances. Make a list of what amenities are important to you and ask about them during your viewing.

4.Are there any developments planned nearby?

It can be extremely frustrating to buy a new house, or rent a flat based on its beautiful views or open spaces nearby, only to hear about huge plans for local developments after you pick up the keys. Prevent disappointment by asking about plans in advance. Look online at the relevant council website to see if any applications have been submitted recently. Social media might also reveal local reactions to proposed renovations in the area.

5.What items are included in the sale?

Sometimes, vendors will be willing to include furnishings and fittings with the sale. This could help them as much as the buyer if they are downsizing or planning to buy new at their next property. Find out exactly what they plan to include. Even if items are old or not to your taste, they could make very useful temporary stop-gaps until you buy your own. In the same way, if you like something you see during your viewing and it is not included see if the vendor would be willing to negotiate on a separate price for it.

6.How much storage is there?

Whether you are moving into your first house or flat, or are viewing potential ‘forever homes’, storage will always be a key consideration. Note how many shelves, cupboards, wardrobes and closets there are. Is there potential to build more around the property if you need them? See how the current vendors are using each room to work out if you can follow suit. Ask if there is additional storage space outside, such as a garage, outhouse or shed.