Viewing a house is an exciting step in the property-buying journey, it’s the moment you can stand inside your prospective home and start to envision your new life there. However, it’s easy to overlook important details when you’re caught up in all the excitement. To ensure you make an informed decision, it’s vital to know exactly what to check for and be aware of when viewing a property.
At The Mortgage Pod, we understand how important the property is, it’s what it’s all about, right? Here’s our comprehensive house-viewing checklist to guide you through the process, all based on our experience as expert mortgage brokers.
1. Assess the Structure and Condition
- Walls and Ceilings: Look for any signs of cracks or dampness, which could indicate structural issues. Single skin walls can be a challenge for mortgage lenders.
- Flat Roof: Check the condition of flat roofs, as they can be prone to leaks and may require more maintenance.
- Windows and Doors: Ensure windows are double glazed for better insulation and check for any signs of rot or damage.
- Fire Alarms and Security: Test fire alarms and security systems to ensure they’re working correctly.
2. Evaluate the Interior Features
- Water Pressure: Turn on all the taps and flush the toilets to check water pressure and drainage.
- Storage Space: Evaluate whether there’s enough storage space for your belongings.
- Natural Light: Observe how much natural light each room gets. South-facing rooms tend to be brighter throughout the day.
- Energy Efficiency: Check the property’s energy performance certificate (EPC) for an idea of running costs and how energy efficient the home is.
- Heating Systems: Ask about the age and condition of the boiler and heating systems.
- Light fittings and power sockets: Will work be required to get these up to your requirements.
3. Check the Exterior and Outdoor Spaces
- Outdoor Space: Consider the size and maintenance of any garden or balcony. Is the garden overlooked, or does it provide privacy?
- Parking: Confirm whether the property includes parking or if street parking is available. Is this suitable for your vehicle?
- Roof and Guttering: Inspect the roof for missing tiles and the guttering for blockages.
- Windows: Make sure the windows are double glazed, which helps with insulation and noise reduction.
4. Review the Local Area and Amenities
- Good Schools: If you have children or are planning a family, check the proximity and ratings of local schools.
- Transport Links: Investigate nearby public transport links and commute times to work or school.
- Local Authority: Understand if the property falls within a conservation area or has restrictions that could affect future renovations.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Check the mobile phone coverage in the property to avoid connectivity issues later.
- Council Tax Band: Research the council tax band and how it fits into your budget.
- WiFi Speed: Increasing more important with flexible or hybrid working. Test WiFi speed here.
5. Additional Considerations
- Ground Rent and Service Charges: For leasehold properties, check the amount of ground rent and any additional service charges.
- Previous Owners: Ask why the previous owners are selling and how long they’ve lived there.
- Planning Permission: Verify if planning permission is required for any future renovations or extensions.
- Conservation Area: If the property is in a conservation area, there may be restrictions on the types of changes you can make to the exterior.
The Key Questions to ask when viewing a house
- Is everything working as it should be?
- Is the garden overlooked, or does it provide privacy?
- Have there been any recent renovations, and do they have the appropriate planning permission?
- How old is the boiler, and when was it last serviced?
The most important thing to consider when viewing a house to buy
Finally, and most importantly, Does it feel like home?
Consider how you feel in the property. Does it give you a sense of comfort and belonging? Can you picture yourself living there—arranging your furniture, cooking in the kitchen, unwinding in the living room, and sleeping peacefully in the bedroom? Are you willing to take on any necessary renovations to make it truly your own? And just as crucially, do you feel at home in the neighbourhood?
If the answer is yes, you may have found the perfect property to buy.
So, on your next house viewing, keep these key factors in mind. They’ll help you gain a thorough understanding of the home—every detail, every corner—and determine if it’s the right fit for you.
And remember The Mortgage Pod offer expert, experienced guidance throughout every step of your home your home buying journey. If you’re ready to secure your mortgage, great, Get Started HERE.
Or if you prefer a friendly chat and some no obligation guidance? You can Contact us today!
Start Your Property Journey with Confidence
At The Mortgage Pod, we’re committed to helping you secure the right mortgage deal for your dream home. From your initial property viewing to the final mortgage approval, our expert mortgage brokers are here to guide you through every step.
Ready to Get Started? Contact The Mortgage Pod for tailored mortgage advice and expert support. Let us help you find the perfect mortgage solution for your new home.
Frequently Asked Questions when viewing a house
What are the most important things to check when viewing a property?
It’s essential to check for signs of damp, cracks in walls, the condition of windows and doors, and test the water pressure. Don’t forget to ask about the age of the heating system and whether the property’s energy performance certificate (EPC) highlights any concerns.
How can I tell if a property is energy efficient?
Review the property’s energy performance certificate (EPC). This will give you insight into how energy-efficient the home is, along with potential improvements. Check for features like double glazing, insulation, and the condition of the boiler.
Should I test the taps and plumbing when viewing a home?
Yes, it’s a good idea. Turn on all taps, flush toilets, and check drainage to ensure everything is working properly. Low water pressure could indicate plumbing issues that may need attention.
What should I look for outside the property?
Inspect the condition of the roof, guttering, and any flat roofs for wear and tear. Look at the garden or outdoor space—consider privacy, whether the garden is overlooked, and how much maintenance it might need. Check parking availability and whether it suits your needs.
How can I assess the local area when viewing a property?
Take time to explore the local area, including nearby schools, transport links, and amenities. Check the council tax band, mobile phone coverage, and WiFi speed. It’s also worth understanding if the property is in a conservation area, which could affect future renovations.
