Home viewing checklist

Viewing a property gives you an opportunity to look at it in real life and potentially imagine yourself living there. You may also use this opportunity to look around the neighbourhood and talk to the estate agents and/or the owners to gather more information on the property and whether it is a right fit for you.

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Talking to the estate agents/homeowner is very important as it gives you the chance to ask any questions about the place. Therefore, I have complied a list of questions that you could potentially ask at the viewing. There maybe certain questions here that may not be applicable to your property and/or already answered in the listing, if so, you can skip these. On the other hand, this list is not exhaustive and if you feel like asking further questions, please do ask the responsible person; you don’t/shouldn’t have to stick to the questions on the list.

Photo by Glenn Carstens-Peters on Unsplash

General

1. What is the history of the property?
2. How long has the property been on the market?
3. What is the current condition of the property/ Are there any known issues with the property?
4. Why does the seller want to sell the property?
5. What is the energy efficiency rating of the property? Can I see the EPC (Energy Performance Certificate)?
6. Have any upgrades/renovations been carried out on the property?
7. What are council/property taxes?
8. Is the property of standard construction?
9. Are there any shared facilities and/or services (if applicable i.e., if the home is part of community/development or an apartment)

Contractual

1. Are there any shared ownership or leasehold issues to be aware of? (applicable to shared ownership and leasehold properties)
2. Is the property affected by any rights of way and/or access to public roads/footpaths?
3. Are there any disputes affecting the property and/or surrounding areas?
4. Are there any management/additional fees/rents associated with the property? (if applicable such as a leasehold contract)
5. Are there any special conditions/requirements for the sale?

Transportation

1. How close is the nearest train station/bus stop?
2. How good are the local taxi companies?
3. Where is the nearest garage? How are they?
4. How is the parking situation in the property and the neighbourhood?

Neighbourhood

1. Are there any restrictions i.e., zoning (such as conservation) regulations and/or listed status on the property?
2. Is the property in a flood zone or prone to natural disasters?
3. How safe is the neighbourhood?
4. Are there any nice areas to walk dogs? (if applicable)
5. How are the schools in this area? (if applicable)
6. What is the potential for future growth in the area?

Utilities/Amenities

1. How much are the monthly utilities bills?
2. Are there any appliances/inventory included with the sale?
3. Is the property connected to a mains gas, water, electricity and sewage system?
4. Does the property have gas heating?
5. What is the condition of the boiler/ How old is it?
6. Are there any warranties/guarantees on home? If yes, what are they?
7. What is the general condition of the electrics and plumbing?
8. How are the closest supermarket and the local convenience store?

It’s important to ask as many questions as possible when viewing a house, as this will help you make an informed decision about whether or not the property and the neighbourhood is right for you. Although this list would serve as a useful guide, please feel free to add/remove questions depending on your circumstance.

Happy House Hunting!!!

Written by Surya