How to make the most out of your viewing

Property viewings are both exciting and daunting, particularly if you go unprepared. To make the most out of this important time, keep in mind these core tips during these initial viewings, which will save you from overlooking these key factors, and paint a clear picture of what might be investing in. 

1. Go in good spirits
If possible, arrange a viewing during a week or weekend when work isn't too stressful and there's no need to rush. Going in annoyed or pessimistic will influence your position and depict the house in a worse light than it is. Furthermore, don't try and cram in as many viewings in one day. You'll tire, forget which house had which, and more often than not, won't be able to accurately compare properties. Making sure you have all your mental faculties about you is the first step to a successful viewing. 

2. Be prepared 
Before diving headfirst into property viewings, create a list of questions you'd like answered about the house, its neighbourhood, and amenities. Decide what features are important to you (modern fittings, close to a fitness centre, nearby schools), in addition to basic things you should know about property including an update on any maintenance fees, whether you are able to extend the property, if the house has had any recently repaired cracks, leaks, or other foundational fixes. If you want to get personal, ask the homeowner why he wants to move, or if there is anything he would miss about the property. No one knows this property better, so don't miss out on opportunities to pry. A great tip is: bring along a notebook. Don't be scared to jot these findings down on paper to help you remember. It's also a good tip for keeping track of any red flags you see or are told about by the homeowner.  This is particularly useful if you have lined up multiple viewing that will need reviewing in due course. 

3. Time of day 
Always suggesting viewing properties during the day, when there is ample light to highlight any problems – be it a large crack in the wall, or a stain on the carpet – that would otherwise be hidden. In the first instance, I would always suggest viewing a new property in natural daylight. 

If it passes the test, arrange for a second viewing at a different time – either on a weekend or after hours on a workday. You'll get a feel for what your house looks like at night, along with a brief window into the characters of your neighbours who should be home from work. Going after work gives you the opportunity to check your commute time between there and the office during rush hour – something you should definitely consider if you see yourself in the same company in the years to come. 


4. Red flags 
Keep an eye out for any issues the homeowner might overlook. Is there a massive crack in the wall? Have the foundations begun to sink? Do the ceilings show traces of any leakages? A wall needed a lick of paint here or there is no real issue, but be mindful of some indicators that point towards high costs in the future. These can include anything from old, rusty boilers needing replacing, old A.Cs or outdating utilities and fittings. Make sure you get a look at these (usually) hidden components or ask the homeowner for information as to when they were replaced, and any issues that need tending to. 
5. Freebies
Don't forget to ask about those lovely white goods! This is particularly important if you're renting, and aren't looking to splurge on a host of expensive necessities. So, be direct: ask which white goods are included in the sale or renting of a property. If they are included, you can then move on to discussing which of these items you actually need or what, and which you'll supply yourself. Getting that out of the way will establish between you and the homeowner what items should be removed by him/her upon sale, redistributing this potential cost from your pocket back to the homeowner.
6. Storage Space
Underestimating the space you need is common. Don't make the mistake of falling in love with a property that doesn't have enough closet space to house your suits and dresses, or a back room to place all your old belongings.  If you're willing to de-clutter before moving in to suit the space, that's great, but don't forget to do so before making the jump or your new property might turn into a packed warehouse.