How to get the most out of property viewing

When it comes to buying property, detailed descriptions, local information, photographs and floorplans are all valuable. But at the top of the list?

Viewings.

Whether you’re fresh to the housing market, a seasoned buyer or taking your first step away from the world of rentals, if you’re looking to buy a new home it’s unlikely we’re telling you anything new by stressing the importance of viewings.

With the limitations imposed as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, there has been a huge rise in the number of virtual viewings taking place (read our blog, ‘Do virtual viewings work?’ to find out more). But, virtual or not, viewings are a key part of the house buying process. So here the property buying experts from GD Property Solicitors, look in more detail at the process so you can be confident you’re getting the most out of it.

What types of viewings are there?

• Direct vendor – this is when the owner themselves guides you around their property. This type of viewing can be a great opportunity to ask questions but be mindful that it is their home you’re looking at and check before taking photos, opening doors etc.
• Agent – here the agent provides the tour. It can be easier as you’re free to talk more openly about your feelings for the property as it isn’t the agent’s home. Experienced in the process, agents can also point out features you might otherwise overlook.
• Open house – with the property available to view on a set day anyone interested can go and have a look around. The bonus to this is that you’re free to wander around at your leisure and if you walk through the door and decide instantly it’s not for you, you can turn around and walk straight back out.
• Virtual – using video calling technology such as Zoom or Skype you are guided by the owner or agent (or both) around the property.

What to look for

When looking around a property there are a number of things it’s beneficial to keep in mind:

• Remember you’re looking at the property, not the décor and try to see past the current owner’s personal taste and style.
• If there are any locked doors – find out what’s behind them.
• If it’s a property with shared outdoor space or terraces, check to see who is entitled to use them and who is responsible for their upkeep.
• Watch out for misleading features – are the bed standard sizes, are all the doors actually there (sometimes they are removed to give a sense of space).
• It can be worth viewing at different times of the day to get a truer picture. How dark the property is, what the neighbours are like, how busy the surrounding area is, can all give different impressions at different times of the day.
• Use all of your senses. It’s not just about how things look. If there’s a heavy scent of air freshener – why? What’s it hiding? What can you hear – is the street outside noisy, are the neighbours playing loud music, does the boiler sound ok?

Get expert help

Buying property is a complicated business. Which is why it pays to work with the experts. And that’s where we come in.

At GD Legal, we offer a conveyancing service that is second-to-none. As soon as we’re instructed, you’ll be appointed a personal property solicitor who will be by your side for every step of your house buying journey. Helping you to successfully navigate through the process of buying your ideal home.

For further advice on property buying or to speak to one of the team, get in touch today.