Essential Questions to Ask on a Viewing as a Buyer

You've found the potential house of your dreams, you have done your desktop research and you have have had a drive around the local area to get a feel for the place. Now it comes to the viewing where you get chance to walk around the property and imagine yourself truly living there.

Whilst its entirely possible to buy a property without ever stepping into it, although we wouldn't recommend it for most transactions, the viewing presents a great opportunity to ask some questions to gain a more profound understanding of the property. Buying a property is a significant investment, and it’s crucial to gather as much information as possible before making a decision if a property is the right property for you.

We have compiled a list of questions that might not be obvious online and will help you make your mind up.

1. How Long Has the Property Been on the Market?

This is most likely available online but there is nothing like asking the seller or agent the question directly. Properties can be taken on and off platforms to artificially change the listing date and refresh local interest. If a property has been on the market for a long time, it could indicate that there are issues that have deterred other buyers or it could simply mean that the price is too high.

2. Why is the Seller Moving?

Understanding the seller’s motivation for moving can give you insight into the property. If they’re moving due to issues with the property or the neighbourhood, it’s important to know before you find yourself in the same position. They may be simply moving up the ladder or it might be due to family issues like divorce. Whilst you shouldn't pry into anyone's personal circumstances it good to get an idea on why they have chosen to list the property.

3. What’s Included in the Sale?

Always clarify what fixtures and fittings are included in the sale. Whilst usually anything integrated stays and everything not screwed down goes this isn't always the case. As you move in your don't want to find that beautifully integrated range cooker not there and the opposite is also true, you don't want to dins a house full of furniture that you have have to dispose of to create space for your furniture. The conveyancing process usually will record the fixtures and fittings. asking at the viewing stage can give the opportunity for negotiation and avoid any issues further down the line.

4. What are the Neighbours Like?

The local community depending on the type of property can significantly impact your living experience. Its always worth just asking if their is any known issues with the neighbours. As a further little way of checking their on going relations on the street, you can try to ask if they know the names of their neighbours. If they do it might suggest a more friendly set up on the street, whilst if they don't it might suggest that people keep themselves to themselves.

5. Are There Any Known Issues with the Property?

Sellers are legally required to disclose certain issues with the property. However, it’s always worth asking directly to ensure you’re fully informed and not making an offer on a property that will run into known issues later on in the conveyancing process. You can ask about potential damp spots or how good the heating is in the winter.

6. What are the Local Amenities Like?

Consider the local schools, shops, parks, and transport links. These amenities can affect the property’s value and your quality of life. A lot of information is available on line but its always nice to have some human insight and lived experience.

7. What Connectivity is at the Property?

One of the new essential requirements of a modern home is a decent phone signal and broadband connectivity. Its worth checking on your own phone if you are able to pick a decent signal on your handset and asking the buyer what network they are on. With regards to broadband if you need internet for home working or entertainment you should check the current set up in the property and what's available.

8. Has Any Major Work Been Done to the Property?

Its very important that any major alterations to the structure of the property have been carried out in line with building regulations, preferably by a profession and that all property planning permissions were sought and granted. Have a walk around the property looking at anything that looks materially different to other similar houses. If indoors look for internal walls that have been removed to create more space.

9. What is the Property’s Exact Boundary?

Whilst the land registry will have the boundaries of the property, they might not be what has actually been the day to day reality. Fences could have been moved or land claimed from adjacent boundaries. Ask the seller if it looks unclear where the boundaries are.

Remember, entering into a property transaction is an expensive undertaking so don’t be afraid to ask questions - it’s better to know as much as possible before starting the process to save yourself hassle in the future.

At Moove we are committed to creating transparency in the process y gathering more information per property than anywhere else. This will help remove any surprises once a property enters "Sold Subject to Contract" and result in faster end to end property transactions.