A home-buyers’ checklist for viewing a property 

If you’re thinking of moving soon, chances are you’re gearing up to start viewing properties.  

But the time at a viewing can go quickly, and there can be a long list of things to consider, or ask the estate agent about, while you’re there. And let’s face it – we’d all rather be imagining having a Sunday morning brew at the dining table, or thinking about what colour to paint the kitchen.  

So here’s a list of questions and helpful pointers to take along with you. 

While you’re at a property viewing, you might want to… 

• Check if there are any signs of damp 
• Look for any signs of subsidence, such as large cracks, or uneven flooring 
• Check which way the property faces, and how it’ll catch the light at different times of day, especially if it has a balcony or a garden 
• Ask how the heating system works, how old it is, and whether its safety checks are up to date 
• Ask to see the fuse box so you can get an idea of the age of the electrics, and again ask whether safety checks are up to date 
• Check whether you get mobile phone signal throughout the property. You could also ask what broadband speeds are available, and which providers service the address
• If there’s no private parking available, consider asking about parking arrangements, permits, and any associated costs
• Listen out for any noise and think about how that might impact you. This could include road traffic, aircraft if the house is close to an airport, or train lines
• Ask how much interest there’s been in the property so far 
• Ask what the current owner likes about the area, and why they’ve decided to move  
• If you’re viewing a home in Scotland, you can ask to check the home report 

Outside of your booked viewing, you might find it useful to… 

• Visit the local area at different times of day to get a feel for the community and transport links 
• Speak to neighbours/other locals about what it’s like to live in the area 
• Check whether the property has ever flooded, or is in a flood risk area. You can do this in England by requesting information from the Environment Agency
• You can also track the property’s value online, via a MyRightmove account

If you’re viewing a leasehold property, you might want to… 

• Check whether the property looks well maintained, and if you do get to speak to any neighbours, ask whether they’re happy with the upkeep of the property 
• Check whether there are any restrictions on what you can/can’t do to the property (things like renovations, for example) 
• Ask how much the annual service charge is, and if it’s increased recently
• Ask if there are any planned major works that leaseholders will need to contribute towards

If you’re viewing a new-build property, you might want to… 

• Ask whether there are any incentives or buying schemes in place you can make use of 
• Check the property specification and which fixtures and fittings are included 
• Check whether you can choose your preferred layout and décor  
• Find out what buildings are planned for nearby sites 
• Ask what EPC rating is expected
• Ask what warranty is provided (for example, NHBC or equivalent)
• Ask when the property is expected to be completed
• Check whether there are any estate management charges that apply after you move in

Also remember to…

• Measure spaces, to make sure your furniture will fit 
• Think about how you might want to use each of the rooms in the property 
• Check how much storage space there is, and think about whether it meets your needs 
• Ask for a second viewing if you’re serious about making an offer (there are often things you’ll spot on a second look you might have missed on a first viewing)
• Consider whether the layout will still meet your needs in the future
• Check access to the property, stairs, parking and local amenities if accessibility is important to you

Things to check before you schedule a viewing…

• Check if it’s leasehold and how long the lease is 
• Ask about any service charges associated with the property 
• Ask which council tax band the property is in, so you can work out your monthly payments 
• Ask what the EPC rating of the property is, to give you an idea how energy-efficient the home is 

6 questions to ask the estate agent on a property viewing

• Why is the owner selling?
• How long has the property been on the market?
• Have there been any offers already?
• Is there an onward chain?
• What are the average energy bills?
• Are there any recent repairs or issues I should know about?

And remember, with a My Rightmove account, you can save your favourite homes in property lists, and set up property alerts for instant access to homes that match what you’re looking for. You can also check sold prices to see how much homes have sold for, and draw a search to define your chosen area.